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25 Epic Places to Visit In Turkey: Must-Sees & Hidden Gems + Itinerary

Home » Blog » Budget Travel » Backpacking Destinations » 25 Epic Places to Visit In Turkey: Must-Sees & Hidden Gems + Itinerary

As the gateway between Europe and Asia, Turkey is a country where East meets West and history meets adventure. We’ve put together a list of epic places to visit in Turkey (including fun things to do!) for the ultimate Turkey bucket list itinerary.

Pamukkale Turkey hot springs

During our three weeks in Turkey, we posted lots of wanderlust-inducing pictures on our Instagram account of all the places to visit in Turkey and have been shocked by the amount of messages we’ve received from followers.

The basic gist is this:

Reader: “Where are you?! It looks so beautiful!”

Us: “Still in Turkey!”

Reader: “Really? I had no idea there were so many things to do in Turkey!”

And you know what? Turkey has surprised us too. 

We didn’t know much about this country before we booked our flight, but it has quickly become one of our favorites.

Turkey is a country where East meets West and history meets adventure. The people are welcoming, the cuisine is delightful, the culture has depth. 

There are also some serious bucket list-worthy adventures and Instagrammable places to visit in Turkey. From sun-kissed beaches to pine-covered mountains, there are more than enough attractions to fully occupy a month’s time. There are just so many reasons to visit Turkey .

We’ve put together a list of all of the things to do and places to visit in Turkey that are reason enough to start looking into flights to this surprising country. On top of that, we’ve included some extra info to help you plan your epic trip. 

Turkey Travel Guide

For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Turkey, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

Map of places to visit in Turkey

  • Best time to visit
  • How many days do you need

Highlights of Turkey itinerary

  • How to get around
  • Tips for visiting
  • What to pack

Top places to visit in Turkey

If you’re looking for our top recommendations, here are the 10 best places to visit in Turkey:

  • Butterfly Valley

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these cities and more ideas for cool places to visit and things to do in Turkey. 

1. Discover Istanbul

The gateway between the East and West

Istanbul Turkey mosque

The gateway between the East and the West, and the only city in the world that can claim residence on two separate continents, Istanbul is truly a one-of-a-kind city. 

With two major airports and direct flights to cities all over the world, it’s likely to be your entry point when visiting Turkey. We highly suggest you take advantage and stay a few days (or more if your schedule allows!). 

While it is a large city—it’s spread out over two continents after all—most of the major highlights of Istanbul can be visited on a walking tour combined with some public transportation. 

Spend some time learning about the progression of this historically significant city, which was at the seat of the Ottoman Empire. The Old City is filled with historical attractions while greater Istanbul is a modern cosmopolitan gem, and a quick ferry across the Bosphorus will take you to a haven of cafes and parks in an entirely different atmosphere. 

Psst! Besides spanning two continents, find out  what else Turkey is famous for . 

Top things to do in Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul Turkey

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Istanbul , but here are some highlights:

  • Marvel at the Hagia Sophia
  • Be amazed by the Blue Mosque
  • Go underground in the Basilica Cistern
  • Take a guided tour of the Topkapi Palace
  • Shop at the famous Grand Bazaar , Turkey’s largest and oldest covered marketplace
  • Tease your senses at the Spice Bazaar
  • Take the ferry across the Bosphorus Strait
  • Discover the colorful Balat neighborhood
  • Take a Turkish cooking class

Where to stay in Istanbul

Here are a few top recommendations for different budgets. For more options, check out the where to stay section of our Istanbul article. 

Cheers Porthouse Istanbul

Budget recommendation: Cheers Porthouse  

This charming guesthouse is located in the up-and-coming hip neighborhood of Karaköy, which is near the Galata Bridge. Between the hotspots of Taksim and Sultanahmet, this hotel is walking distance to each. Plus, there are numerous restaurants and local watering holes close by.

Hotel Miniature

Mid-range budget: Hotel Miniature

Situated in the Sultanahmet neighborhood just steps from the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, this 139-year-old Ottoman mansion has been renovated into one of Istanbul’s cutest boutique hotels. The rooms compliment a range of budgets and feature original brick walls, high ceilings and luxurious modern en suites. A rooftop terrace is the perfect place to enjoy your Turkish breakfast spread.

Ajwa Sultanahmet

Splurge: AJWA Sultanahmet

This 5-star hotel is situated right in the historical center of Old Istanbul. If the seriously Instagrammable entrance isn’t enough to make you want to stay, check out the gorgeously decorated interiors. The property features 61 rooms, an onsite restaurant and spa, embracing all aspects of luxury hospitality.

2. Take a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia

Ethereal, fairytale-like region famous for hot air balloon flights

Cappadocia hot air balloons Turkey

Cappadocia is a place that appears to have been plucked straight from a fairytale. The ethereal landscape dotted with formations dubbed as ‘fairy chimneys’ by the locals is made even more magical every morning as colorful hot air balloons dance across the sky. 

What was once a settlement of cave-dwellers is now a popular tourist destination in central Turkey. Cappadocia is famous for its peculiar rock formations, open air museums, and is practically synonymous with hot air ballooning—one of the best things to do in Turkey!

Top things to do in Cappadocia, Turkey

Zelve Open Air Museum Cappadocia

We’ve got a great round up of all the fun things to do in Cappadocia , but here are some highlights:

  • Take a sunrise hot air balloon flight
  • Sleep in a cave … hotel that is! 
  • Watch the sunrise over Göreme
  • Pay a visit to an open air museum (Göreme and Zelve open air museums are both worth a visit!)
  • Go hiking in Love Valley (you’ll see why it got such a name in the photo above), Rose Valley or Red Valley
  • Climb to the top of Uçhisar Castle to watch the sunset
  • Have breakfast or take your Turkish tea on a rooftop

VIDEO: Watch our hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia!

How to get to cappadocia.

Cappadocia has two major airports in the region, Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) and Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR). Both are under a 1.5 hour drive from Goreme. 

Depending on the season you can fly into Cappadocia for less than $100 USD, round-trip from Istanbul on Turkish Airlines. 

Another option would be to take a bus from Istanbul or from other cities in Western Turkey for about 200 TL (around $20 USD).

Where to stay in Cappadocia

We have an entire article on the best Cappadocia Cave Hotels – from budget to luxury. For more options, check out the where to stay section of our Cappadocia article. 

Here are a few top recommendations for different budgets:

Falcon Cave Suites Cappadocia

Budget recommendation: Falcon Cave Suites

An incredible value at around $25 USD per night (price can vary based on time of year). The room isn’t a cave per se , but is made of stone bricks and has a high, arched ceiling which makes it feel almost as if you’re in a cave. The room itself has lots of natural light and a spacious bathroom with a Jacuzzi pool (yes please!). The breakfast is good and the family who runs this hotel is nice, though their English is minimal.

Local Cave House Hotel Cappadocia

Mid-range budget: Local Cave House Hotel

One of the most gorgeous pools in Göreme, Local Cave House is a boutique property that offers cave suites for double, triple and family-sized occupancy. Carved into the cliffside in Göreme, the hotel features a beautiful terrace with swimming pool and hookah lounge. Daily continental breakfast is included with your stay.

Sacred House Hotel (Booking)

Splurge: Sacred House

Possibly the most beautifully decorated boutique hotel I’ve ever seen. This hotel is in a 250-year-old Greek mansion where its history is embedded in the luxurious design. Everything from the indoor winter garden lounge area to the opulent indoor swimming pool and spa is simply divine.

3. Take a dip in thermal hot springs in Pamukkale

Surreal terraced hot spring pools filled with milky-blue waters

Pamukkale Turkey hot springs

Pamukkale means “cotton castle” in Turkish and you can see why. The white mineral deposits (travertines) make it look as if you’re stepping on a cotton-covered hill, but the tepid water will tell you otherwise.

Situated in southwestern Turkey, the terraced pools that make up Pamukkale look surreal in pictures and even more dreamlike in person. 

This is one of the most epic places to visit in Turkey, so it’s no wonder this beautiful place has become quite the popular tourist attraction. 

Get there early to avoid the crowds (it’s best to stay overnight!) while soaking, splashing and relaxing in these unique springs. And when your fingers have turned pruney, head to the top of the hill where you can explore the ancient ruins of Hierapolis.

Top things to do in Pamukkale, Turkey

Pamukkale Turkey

  • Cost: 50 TL (~$8 USD) to enter
  • Cost: 100 TL (~$16 USD) to enter
  • Discover the ancient ruins of Hierapolis
  • Check out Hierapolis Archeological Museum

How to get to Pamukkale

You can catch a bus from Istanbul to Denizli , which will take around 9-10 hours. Consider getting an overnight bus to catch up on time. 

From Denizli, you will need to get on a minibus to complete the 30 min drive to Pamukkale. Both Pamukkale Bus Company and Metro Bus Company offer regular routes between the two cities. 

Another option would be to rent a car in Istanbul and make the 6 hour drive. 

Where to stay in Pamukkale

When staying in Pamukkale, you won’t have a ton of options. But new hotels are popping up every year. Here are a few highly-rated recommendations. 

Pamukkale Melrose Viewpoint Suites (Booking)

Budget option: Pamukkale Melrose Viewpoint Suites

Offering a swimming pool, sun terrace and daily breakfast, you’ll have a hard time finding a better option for your budget in Pamukkale. Plus they have room sizes to fit families and larger groups. 

Venus Suite Hotel (Booking)

Mid range budget: Venus Suite Hotel

At a slightly higher price point, this all-suite hotel was completely renovated in 2015. This is a great option with updated facilities and a range of rooms to fit different budgets. 

Pamukkale Whiteheaven Suite Hotel (Booking)

Splurge: Pamukkale Whitehaven Suite Hotel

This highly-rated property is one of the most expensive hotels in the area, but still quite reasonable on the budget. The Travertines are just 500 meters away, making it a great place to base yourself for a night or two. 

4. Hit the beaches in Antalya

Resort city on the southern coast known as the “capital of tourism” in Turkey

Antalya Turkey_STOCK-U (Nihat Sinan Erul)

One of the can’t-miss things to do in Turkey is take advantage of the beaches. With 5,000+ miles of coastline, how could you not!?

The southwestern coast of Turkey, with its turquoise blue waters, white sandy beaches and charming coastal towns, is known as the Turkish Riviera, or better as “The Turquoise Coast.” Antalya sits as the hub of this region and is considered the “Gateway to Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast.”

A resort city with white sand beaches and fancy hotels surrounding the yacht-filled Old Harbor, Antalya is one of the best places to visit in Turkey that should not be missed!

Top things to do in Antalya, Turkey

Antalya Turkey harbor

  • Take a boat ride to Duden Waterfalls
  • Explore the Old Town of Kaleiçi
  • Take the cable car up Tunek Tepe to take in the views
  • Hit the beach for some fun in the sun
  • Hike part of the Lycian Way
  • Have lunch overlooking the Old Harbor

How to get to Antalya

The best way to get there is by flying into the Antalya International Airport (AYT). Check out Turkish Airlines for some of the best deals on direct flights from Istanbul and other major cities in Turkey. 

Where to stay in Antalya

Kaleiçi is the Old Town city center and best place to stay to be near all the action. If you’re looking to stay near the beach with more affordable rates, Konyaalti Beach is a good bet. 

Alternatively, you can venture further down the coast to find miles of pristine beach with some ultra-luxe beach resorts.

BE BOLD HOSTEL (Booking)

Budget recommendation: Be Bold Hostel

A vibrant and lively atmosphere combined with comfortable accommodations. Friendly staff, social common areas, and a convenient location for exploring the city and beaches. 

travel ideas turkey

Mid-range budget: Sealife Lounge Adult Only Hotel

A luxurious and exclusive retreat designed for adults seeking a serene and sophisticated getaway. Sealife Lounge offers a relaxing and indulgent stay with elegant rooms, stunning sea views, and a range of upscale amenities.

Perge Hotels (Booking)

Splurge: Perge Hotel

Perched on a cliffside in Antalya, less than 1 km from Mermerli Beach, Perge Hotel is an adults-only paradise featuring stunning views, a private beach and lounge bar. 

Kempinski Hotel The Dome Belek (Booking)

Ultra splurge: Kempinski Hotel The Dome Belek

A luxurious and idyllic retreat where guests can enjoy world-class amenities, stunning golf courses, and pristine beaches. With its elegant design, impeccable service, and an array of dining options, the hotel offers a truly indulgent experience for travelers looking for luxury just down the coast from Antalya. 

5. Fall in love with Kaş

A charming seaside town without all the tourists

Kas Turkey

This charming beach town may be known as Turkey’s premier scuba diving destination, but there is so much more to fall in love with here. 

The oceanside gem of Kas has ancient ruins, hip restaurants and stunning beaches. And as an added bonus, it hasn’t quite caught the tourism boom and commercialization of some of the other well-known towns in the south.

Top things to do in Kas, Turkey

Kas Turkey Amphitheater

  • Spend the day soaking up some rays at a beachless beach club
  • Enjoy the small sliver of beach at Küçük Çakıl
  • Fill up on mezze at a cute restaurant in the Old Town
  • Climb the ruins of the Hellenistic Amphitheater to watch the sunset
  • Take a day trip to Meis Island, Greece (just a 45 minute ferry ride!)
  • Make your way to Kaputas Beach (see #18), a 45 minute drive up the coast

How to get to Kas

Kas Turkey

Located on Turkey’s Southern Mediterranean Coast, the best way to reach Kas is by flying into the Antalya airport (AYT) and taking a shuttle. The ride is just 3 hours along a beautiful stretch of coastline. 

Alternatively, you could fly into Dalaman Airport (DLM), which is just 2.5 hours to the northwest, and take a bus or a shuttle. 

Where to stay in Kas

Kas is a town built right into the hillside, so there are lots of stairs and steep hills if you’re not staying right on the shore. Keep this in mind when booking. 

WhiteHouse (Airbnb)

Budget recommendation: White House Studio Apartment

This highly-rated studio apartment on Airbnb is just 100 meters from the seaside making it an ideal stay for travelers looking for a more homey feel in Kas. Amenities include a kitchen, in-unit washer, A/C and wifi.  

Hotel Begonvil (Booking)

Mid-range budget: Hotel Begonvil

A charming boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the picturesque town. This hotel features comfortable rooms, a warm atmosphere, and a rooftop terrace boasting panoramic views. 

Hill House (Booking)

Splurge: Hill House

This adults-only accommodation offers modern suites with sea views and other incredible amenities in the heart of Kas. The highly-rated property has received great reviews for cleanliness, comfort and wifi. 

6. Go paragliding over Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon

Home of the blue lagoon of Ölüdeniz Tabiat Parkı and Belcekız Beach

paragliding over Oludeniz Turkey

In Turkish, Ölüdeniz translates to dead sea , which refers to the ultra calm waters of the surrounding area (including the famous Blue Lagoon). This makes for the perfect destination for beach-goers, especially for families with little ones. 

While the sea is incredible, there is one truly spectacular way to experience the unique landscape of Oludeniz… 

Paragliding is perhaps the closest you can get to the feeling of flying without actually sprouting wings. Ölüdeniz gained fame when Daniel Craig ran off a cliff in the movie Skyfall. If James Bond can do it, so can we! Err… right?

Make like James Bond and give paragliding a try in this picturesque seaside town. You can book a paragliding tour with Get Your Guide which includes an experienced instructor, transportation and extreme sports insurance.

If soaring above the lush cliffs that hug the Mediterranean isn’t adventurous enough for you, you can ask your guide if you can pilot for an extra adrenaline rush! This was a first for both of us, and I think it’s safe to say we were spoiled by the views.

Our experience 

paragliding over Oludeniz Turkey

We had a great time seeing Oludeniz from above and think it is one of the most beautiful places to go paragliding in the world. That said, we didn’t love the town itself. We found it to be extremely touristy, overpriced and dare we say… trashy.

We definitely weren’t feeling the vibe, and it was the only town in Turkey we actually disliked. If you are in the south of the country and want to paraglide, we would highly recommend making a stop there to go paragliding over these blue waters, but not for much longer than a day.

Another spot to go paragliding in Turkey is in Alanya, on the southern coast. There are plenty of things to do in Alanya and it is worth a spot while traveling around Turkey. 

Top things to do in Ölüdeniz, Turkey

  • Paraglide over the famous Blue Lagoon
  • Go swimming in the Blue Lagoon
  • Try scuba diving to some unique archeological dive sites
  • Explore the surrounding small coves and islands on a boat trip
  • Ride the Babadag Mountain cable car to the top for 360-degree views
  • Experience the nightlife

How to get to Ölüdeniz

We took a bus from nearby Antalya , a resort town on the south coast. It was about a 3.5-hour trip and cost us about 20 TL (around $6 USD). 

Where to stay near Ölüdeniz

The best accommodation in Oludeniz will be as near the beach and Blue Lagoon as you can get. The city center will offer more options and a range of budgets. Otherwise, you can stay in nearby Fethiye (see #12)  and come to the Blue Lagoon for the day. 

The Pearl Ölüdeniz (Booking)

Mid-range budget recommendation: The Pearl Ölüdeniz

A stunning property near Oludeniz Beach that offers guests a luxurious and tranquil retreat. The hotel features elegant design, spacious rooms, and a range of top-notch amenities including a pool and spa.

7. Party the night away in Bodrum

Dubbed the “St. Tropez of Turkey”

Bodrum Turkey

The city of Bodrum is a summer hot spot and idyllic beach destination on the turquoise blue Aegean coast. 

Whether you prefer live music or a hopping club, there is no shortage of nightlife in this coastal paradise. Party the night away and then sleep it off while you soak up some rays on the beach or at one of the many infinity pools in the area. 

Don’t worry though…Bodrum is not just for partiers. There is plenty of culture and history to be soaked up as well. 

Top things to do in Bodrum, Turkey

  • Get into the nightlife
  • Check out the Bodrum Castle , a medieval fortress completed in the 4th century B.C.
  • See the ruins of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus , one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
  • Try the traditional stuffed muscles , a local street food favorite
  • Taste fresh olives made in the 100-year-old-factory in Old Town
  • Watch local artisans weave Turkish carpets at the local market 

How to get to Bodrum

Bodrum Castle

Bodrum has an international airport (BJV) with direct flights from Istanbul and other European and Asian cities. 

You can also take a bus from other major cities in Turkey, rent a car and drive yourself. 

Alternatively, you can arrive by sea! There are daily ferries from the Greek islands of Cos and Rhodes that make their way into Bodrum. 

Where to stay in Bodrum

For a city that’s centered around its harbor, you’ll want to stay close to the coast if you want to be in the center of the action.

K Studio (Booking)

Budget recommendation: K Studio

You cannot beat the price on this highly-rated studio in Bodrum city. Located less than 2 km from the beach, this air conditioned studio is the perfect retreat for travelers on a budget.

Su Hotel (Booking)

Mid-range budget: Su Hotel & Cottages  

Staying here will give you more of an apartment feel. You can book one and two bedroom places with small kitchenettes.

Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay Bodrum (Booking)

Splurge: Kempinski Barbaros Bay Bodrum

A luxurious seaside retreat that epitomizes elegance and tranquility, offering guests breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, pristine private beaches, and world-class amenities. Perched on a cliffside, the luxurious resort overlooks Barbados Bay on the Bodrum Peninsula. 

The Bodrum EDITION (Booking)

Ultra-Splurge: The Bodrum Edition  

Part of the Edition boutique hotel collection. With stunning views of the Aegean Sea, you’ll get the five-star treatment at this luxury establishment.

8. Explore magical Butterfly Valley

Enchanted valley home to diverse butterfly species

Butterfly Valley Turkey

Wander amongst wildflowers, fruit trees and wild goats in this enchanted valley that will have you wondering if you’ve stepped into a storybook paradise that’s been frozen in time.

Just a kilometer from the ocean, you’ll find a tumbling waterfall framed by boulders and flowering trees. And if you get bored of wandering, relax on the pebble-strewn beach that is lapped by crystal blue waters. 

Have I sold you on this dreamy paradise yet?

Top things to do in and around Butterfly Valley

  • See how many butterfly species you can recognize
  • Relax on the beach with a cold beverage in hand
  • Visit the waterfall
  • Spend the night in a teepee nearby (see our budget recommendation below!)
  • Hike to the remote Kebak Beach

How to get to Butterfly Valley

Butterfly Valley Turkey

To enter Butterfly Valley, you must either abseil down into the valley from the village above using ropes and a bit of rock climbing prowess. However, if you’re no mountaineer, you can reach the valley via a 20-minute boat ride from Ölüdeniz.

The water taxi leaves the main beach in Ölüdeniz twice each day, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and returns at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. If you want to spend the night in Butterfly Valley, bring a tent, or stay in the very basic accommodation in the valley.

Where to stay near Butterfly Valley

There is only one official accommodation option within the valley itself. Outside of that you’ll have to stay in nearby towns and visit the valley on a day trip. 

travel ideas turkey

Budget recommendation: Shiva Camp

Perched high on a cliff, this unique glamping resort boasts panoramic views of the Mediterranean below. Luckily, this million-dollar view isn’t just for the rich. A night in a teepee at Shiva Camp costs just around $50 USD (very typical for the area) and includes a hearty breakfast and dinner for two people.

Butterfly Valley Beach Glamping (Booking)

Mid-range budget: Butterfly Valley Beach Glamping

This is the only accommodation option in Butterfly Valley. There are multiple options for “luxury” tents with single and double beds. The accommodation provides free wifi and food along with your stay.  

Villa Butterfly (Booking)

Splurge: Villa Butterfly

A stunning high-end boutique hotel offering guests incredible views from the infinity pool overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. 

9. Trabzon Province

Turkey’s Black Sea region that seamlessly blends history, nature, and cultural charm 

Uzungöl Lake_STOCK-U (Samer Daboul)

Located on the Black Sea coast, Trabzon Province offers a unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty that lies beyond the well-trodden tourist path. 

With a rich history dating back to ancient times, Trabzon is home to architectural wonders and historical treasures. 

Exploring the narrow streets of the capital city’s old town, visitors can soak up the authentic atmosphere. Marvel at traditional wooden houses and discover hidden gems, like the bustling bazaars where you can sample local delicacies and shop for textiles and souvenirs.  

Beyond its coastal charm, the city is surrounded by lush green mountains, where you can embark on hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints overlooking the Black Sea. Lush green mountains, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque valleys adorn the landscape. The ​​Uzungöl Lake is a particularly stunning vista, just 1.5 hours outside the capital city.

Top things to do in Trabzon, Turkey

  • Take in the beauty of Uzungöl Lake
  • Explore the narrow streets of the bustling Old Town
  • Check out the Hagia Sophia of Trabzon , a magnificent Byzantine church-turned-mosque, and the Trabzon Castle  
  • Visit the Sumela Monastery (see #20) perched high on a cliffside
  • Indulge in deliciously fresh seafood 
  • Take advantage of the picturesque beaches

How to get to Trabzon

Uzungöl Lake_STOCK-U (Damoon Katooei)

There is a smaller domestic airport near the capital city (TBX) you can fly into from other cities around Turkey. This is your best bet as Trabzon is quite far from other major destinations. 

Alternatively, you could rent a car and road trip (the drive from Istanbul is about 14 hours), or endure a 17-hour bus ride. 

Where to stay in Trabzon

You’ll find the most accommodation options in the capital city by the same name. From there, you can venture into the natural surroundings on day trips and excursions. 

Copper House (Booking)

Mid-range budget recommendation: Copper House

With its tastefully designed rooms, personalized service, and a convenient location near popular attractions, Copper House makes a great base for exploring the province and capital city. 

Ramada Plaza Hotel & Spa Trabzon (Booking)

Mid-range budget: Ramada Plaza Hotel & Spa Trabzon

A luxurious and contemporary hotel that combines upscale amenities with breathtaking views of the Black Sea.

Zorlu Grand Hotel Trabzon (Booking)

Splurge: Zorlu Grand Hotel Trabzon

A refined and elegant hotel that exudes a timeless charm with its luxurious accommodations and impeccable service. The hotel features a central location, stunning sea views, and a range of amenities including a rooftop terrace and spa.

10. Holiday like a local in Çeşme

Picturesque coastal town popular with the locals

Çeşme Turkey_STOCK-U (Mehmet Uzut) 2

Çeşme is a resort town west of Izmir on Turkey’s Aegean coast surrounded by clear blue waters and accessible dive sites. 

The beauty of Çeşme is that it hasn’t quite hit the international radar and is mostly frequented by Turkish vacationers giving it that untouched-by-tourists sort of charm. 

Top things to do in Cesme, Turkey

  • Explore the beautiful beaches in the area
  • Take a windsurfing or kitesurfing lesson
  • Check out the historical town center
  • Have a night out in Alacati
  • Eat lots of fresh seafood
  • Peruse the Cesme Archeological Museum inside Cesme Castle

Çeşme Turkey_STOCK-U (Mehmet Uzut)

How to get to Cesme

You can fly into the international airport in Izmir (ADB), from which there are regular shuttles to Çeşme, just a 1 hour drive west. 

Another option would be to take the bus from Istanbul , which will set you back about 10 hours, however the buses in Turkey are quite comfortable and offer amenities like restrooms and snacks.

Where to stay in Cesme

Alacati is a charming neighborhood within Cesme, known for its quaint stone houses, narrow streets, and vibrant nightlife. Cesme Marina is another good area to consider with views of the Aegean Sea, a variety of restaurants and cafes, and easy access to the town’s attractions. 

Aden Boutique Otel (Booking)

Budget recommendation: Aden Boutique Otel

A delightful and highly-rated boutique hotel that combines comfort, style, and personalized service, plus it won’t break the bank. 

Laledan Hotel (Booking)

Mid-range budget: Laledan Hotel

Offering a convenient location near the beach and a range of amenities including a rooftop terrace and swimming pool, the Laledan Hotel provides a delightful and relaxing experience for visitors to Cesme.

Sato Design Hotel (Booking)

Splurge: Sato Design Hotel

Blending contemporary elements with traditional Turkish influences, the Sato Hotel stands out with its unique and stylish design. The trendy hotel also boasts beachfront access, chic rooms and a welcoming ambiance.

The Stay Alacati Warehouse - Adults Only

Ultra-Splurge: The Stay Alacati Warehouse

Housed in a renovated historical warehouse with thoughtfully designed rooms, cozy atmosphere, and a prime location in the heart of Alacati, The Stay Alacati Warehouse Hotel provides a unique and memorable stay for guests.

11. Explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus

Ancient city with remarkably preserved ruins

Ephesus Turkey_STOCK-Pex (Azra Tuba)

Once the trade center of the ancient world, today Ephesus is a UNESCO World Heritage site visited by tourists year-round and one of Turkey’s best ancient ruins . 

The city has both Greek and Roman history dating back to the 10th century BC. You can stroll for hours down the streets viewing the ancient ruins of temples, libraries, theaters, houses and statues. 

Possibly the most famous historical site in this city is the Temple of Artemis, which is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Other buildings include the impressive Library of Celsus and the Temple of Hadrian.

Long story short: If you’re looking to visit interesting historical places in Turkey , Ephesus should be on your itinerary. 

Historical sites in Ephesus, Turkey

  • Library of Celsus
  • The Great Theater
  • Temple of Hadrian
  • Harbor of Ephesus
  • Public Latrines
  • Curetes Street
  • The Bouleuterion

Ephesus Turkey_STOCK-U (Tony Hanks)

How to get to Ephesus

The easiest way to visit Ephesus would be to take a bus from Izmir . The bus system in Turkey is very comfortable and reliable. Buses run about every half hour and tickets will cost you about 20 TL for the hour-long trip to Ephesus. 

Renting a car is another option that would give you slightly more freedom.

Where to stay near Ephesus

Selcuk is the modern town and gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus. There isn’t much in the way of charm here, but you may choose to stay overnight so you can visit the ruins first thing in the morning. Sirince is a hilltop town nearby that is also a popular stop for day-trippers. 

12. Discover the beauty of Fethiye

Coastal town with harmonious blend of natural beauty and old town charm

travel ideas turkey

A captivating coastal town nestled along the picturesque Turquoise Coast. Fethiye’s stunning natural beauty is a major draw, with the renowned Blue Lagoon (see #6) and Butterfly Valley (#8) close by. 

Beyond its natural wonders, Fethiye boasts a charming old town that exudes an authentic Turkish ambiance. Its narrow streets are lined with quaint shops, vibrant markets, and traditional eateries serving delicious Turkish cuisine. 

Top things to do in Fethiye, Turkey

  • Wander the Fethiye Old Town and get lost in the narrow streets
  • Pick out fresh seafood at the Fethiye Fish Market and have it cooked to perfection at one of the surrounding restaurants
  • Explore the Lycian Rock Tombs carved into the cliffs overlooking Fethiye
  • Discover the Saklikent Gorge on an adventurous hike
  • Take a boat trip to the Twelve Islands scattered along the coast
  • Visit the Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz (see #6)

Fethiye Turkey_STOCK-Pex (Furkan Dolunay

How to get to Fethiye

The nearest international airport is Dalaman Airport (DLM), which is just a 45 minute ride away. Alternatively, you can take a bus from nearby cities along the southern coast. 

Where to stay in Fethiye

If you’re looking for a vibrant and bustling atmosphere, the Fethiye Town Center is for you. This area offers a variety of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly hotels to upscale resorts, and it’s conveniently located near shops, restaurants, and the Fethiye Harbor. 

Ten Apart Hotel (Booking)

Budget recommendation: Ten Apart Hotel

Located near the town center and within walking distance to main attractions, this hotel offers a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers on a budget. 

Bliss Suites & Hotel (Booking)

Mid-range budget: Bliss Suites & Hotel

With its convenient location near the beach, attentive service, and a rooftop terrace providing panoramic views, the Bliss Suites & Hotel provides a delightful and luxurious experience for guests visiting Fethiye.

Sundia Exclusive By Liberty Fethiye (Booking)

Splurge: Sundia Exclusive by Liberty Fethiye

A luxurious and exclusive hotel that caters to the discerning traveler with its elegant rooms, upscale amenities, and personalized service. 

13. Go white water rafting through Köprülü Canyon

Rugged beautiful canyon with high cliffs and a fast-flowing river

Koprulu Canyon (GYG)

Koprulu Canyon, located in the Antalya region of Turkey, is a natural wonder that never fails to impress. Carved by the mighty Köprüçay River, this stunning canyon offers a perfect blend of rugged beauty and adrenaline-pumping adventures. 

The crystal-clear turquoise waters of the river meander through the steep cliffs, creating a picturesque setting that is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

One of the main attractions of Koprulu Canyon is white water rafting. As you navigate the rushing rapids of the Köprüçay River, you’ll experience an exhilarating ride surrounded by breathtaking scenery. 

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, the canyon offers various levels of difficulty, making it suitable for all skill levels. You can book your rafting tour with Get Your Guide which includes an experienced guide, transportation and extreme sports insurance.

Other things to do in Koprulu Canyon

  • Immerse yourself in nature on a hike through the canyon
  • Fly over the canyon on a thrilling ziplining adventure
  • Explore the canyon by canyoning
  • Go on a quad bike adventure
  • Do a Jeep safari through the canyon

Köprülü Canyon Turkey_STOCK-Pex (Mert Kahveci)

How to get to Koprulu Canyon

The best way to get to Koprulu Canyon is on a guided tour. You can browse all kinds of guided adventures through the canyon on Get Your Guide .

Alternatively, you can take the public bus to Alanya, Turkey and get off at the Köprülü Canyon – Beşkonak turnout. From there you’ll take the Bekonak village minibus into Köprülü Canyon.

Where to stay near Koprulu Canyon

Koprulu Canyon is just 1.5 hours outside of Antalya. See #4 on this list for recommendations. 

14. Kayak over the ruins of Kekova

Underwater city with submerged structures ancient artifacts

travel ideas turkey

Turkey has an incredible amount of ancient ruins, and is less touristy than its popular neighbors, Italy and Greece. One of the areas with a high concentration of ruins is a region along the south coast that forms the ‘Lycian Way.’ 

Don’t expect to look down and see a whole city with recognizable storefronts and homes. This isn’t a movie, but it’s impressive nonetheless. The clear water allows you to see remains of a town that was flooded after an earthquake. 

Ruins still stand on the shore as well, and are reminders of those who called the land home. 

The kayak trip will stop at the charming little town of Kalekoy, which can only be reached by boat. Spend a few hours in the sun enjoying a leisurely lunch, hiking to some hilltop ruins, snorkeling with turtles and devouring the town’s famous goat milk ice cream.

How to get to the Kekova ruins

Kekova ruins Turkey

We booked our kayak tour in the town of Kaş where there were plenty of tour options to choose from. You can also browse the options on Get Your Guide for different types of tours (kayaking, boating, etc.) leaving from different nearby towns. 

Tip: The kayak trip was relaxed and not very difficult or tiring compared with other sea kayaking we’ve done. We would highly recommend taking a kayak trip because it’s an environmentally friendly way to explore and group size is small; but if it’s just not your thing, you can also see the sunken city of Kekova by boat.

15. Roast marshmallows over the eternal flame of the Chimera

Mesmerizing natural phenomenon where flames emerge from the earth

eternal flame of the Chimera Turkey

The quiet seaside town of Olympos is known for its ruins, a laidback pebbly beach and the eternal flames called the Chimera. 

This grouping of flames burns naturally in the Cirali mountains and they are rumored to have been seen by ships at sea for hundreds of years.

The scientific explanation is that the flames are caused by methane gas oozing from the mountain’s crevices. While they are constantly burning, the time of year and the barometric pressure can make them vary in size.  

How to get to Chimera

eternal flame of the Chimera Turkey

Once the sun has set, take a shuttle to the edge of the mountain, and once you get out of the vehicle you’re on your own. Hike about 30 minutes up the steep and wooded mountainside, enjoying serenity and spectacular stars.

Eventually you’ll reach a clearing where flames emerge from the rocky ground, and this is where you’ll stop. Enjoy a peaceful night on your own in the moonlight, or make friends with others gathered around the flames by offering to share marshmallows!

The campfire vibes are strong on this mountain with endless flames, and you may be tempted to stay all night. Just don’t miss your return ride to Olympos because it’s a long walk back!

Tip: Buy marshmallows, sticks and perhaps wine in town to bring along! We didn’t think of this, but met a couple that was kind enough to share with us, and it really made the experience special. Be sure not to leave any trash if you decide to do this.

What to pack for visiting Chimera

Bringing a blanket would have made our time camped out in front of the flames even more comfortable. Also, wear sturdy shoes, as the hike is on uneven ground in the dark. 

Your driver should provide you with a flashlight, but it’s never a bad idea to come prepared with your own. Mine didn’t work, so I was glad I had my own headlamp.

16. Go underground in the city of Derinkuyu

Intricate network of tunnels, rooms, and chambers from ancient civilizations

travel ideas turkey

The Cappadocia region of Turkey is known for its “fairy chimney” cave dwellings, making it one of the most unique places to visit in Turkey. However, what lies beneath the surface is just as impressive. 

Cappadocia was one of the earliest Christian settlements, and to avoid persecution, many people lived underground. We’re talking thousands.

Imagine doing some renovations to your house and finding a hidden doorway to lead to the largest underground city in Turkey. 

That is exactly how Derinkuyu was discovered in 1963. The underground city, which is large enough to have sheltered 20,000 people together with their livestock, has since been excavated. 

Tourists can wander through the narrow tunnels and passageways and see the labyrinth of cave systems that include places for livestock, churches and wineries. They really did have everything they needed under the earth’s surface! 

Top things to do in Derinkuyu, Turkey

  • Delve into the depths of history while exploring the Derinkuyu Underground City
  • Visit the Derinkuyu Castle , an iconic landmark perched atop a hill with panoramic views
  • Wander through the Selime Monastery , featuring stunning frescoes, intricate carvings, and cave chambers
  • Go on a scenic hike in the Ihlara Valley

Derinkuyu Turkey

How to get to Derinkuyu

The city of Derinkuyu is just a 45 min drive from Göreme (in the Cappadocia region). Buses and even taxis will take you there for a day of exploration.

Where to stay in Derinkuyu

Situated in the Cappadocia region of central Turkey, the best place to stay near the Derinkuyu Underground City is in a cave hotel. Check out our round up of the best cave hotels in Cappadocia for inspiration.  

17. Catch some rays at Patara Beach

Super long stretch of pristine golden sand beach on Turkey’s south coast

Petara Beach

Stretching for approximately 18 kilometers, this pristine beach boasts soft golden sands, shimmering turquoise waters, and a tranquil atmosphere that entices sun-seekers and nature lovers alike. 

What sets Patara Beach apart is its rich historical backdrop. The beach is nestled next to the ancient city of Patara, an important Lycian settlement and a thriving port in the past. Here, visitors can explore the remnants of this ancient civilization, including the grand arch of the city gate and the well-preserved theater. 

Patara Beach Turkey

How to get to Patara Beach

Located in a lesser-developed area along Turkey’s southwestern coast, Patara Beach can be reached by bus from Fethyie, Kas, or Antalya. 

Where to stay near Patara Beach

The closest towns to Patara Beach are Fethyie (see #12), Kas (see #5), Oludeniz (see #6) or Antalya (see #4). 

18. Glimpse the iconic Kaputas Beach from above

Secluded paradise with stunningly clear azure waters and dramatic rocky cliffs

Kaputas Beach Turkey

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Turkey’s Mediterranean Coast, Kaputas Beach is a true natural wonder that leaves visitors in awe. Accessed through a narrow and winding staircase that descends from the cliffs, the beach welcomes you with mesmerizing turquoise waters and breathtaking beauty.

The crystal-clear sea is so transparent that you can see the bottom well into the deep, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply enjoying a refreshing dip in the cool waters.

While no longer the hidden gem it once was, you’ll have to get there early—like really early—to snag an umbrella and sun bed during the summer months. However, even with the crowd this beach draws, it’s still a stunner. 

How to get to Kaputas Beach

Kaputas Beach Turkey

You can drive yourself or take a taxi from nearby Kas to get to Kaputas Beach. The ride is about 30 minutes and will cost you about 300 lira (~$17 USD) one way. 

Alternatively, you can take a minibus for just 20 lira from the main bus station in Kas. You’ll have to tell the driver you want to get off at Kaputas Beach so he knows to make the stop and you may find standing-room only on the 30 minute ride, depending on how packed the bus is. 

Where to stay near Kaputas Beach

The best town to stay in near Kaputas Beach is Kas (see #5). 

19. Take a peak at Ishak Pasha Palace

Majestic architectural marvel in Eastern Turkey

Ishak Pasha Palace Turkey

Perched on a hilltop near the town of Dogubeyazit in Eastern Turkey, Ishak Pasha Palace stands as an architectural masterpiece and a testament to the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. 

Built in the 18th century, this expansive palace complex showcases architectural styles from the Ottoman tradition, as well as a mixture of Anatolian, Iranian and North Mesopotamian.Intricate details, beautifully adorned courtyards, elegant arches, and towering minarets, create a visual spectacle that transports visitors to a bygone era of opulence and regality. 

From its strategic hilltop location, Ishak Pasha Palace offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the imposing Mount Ararat, adding an extra layer of awe-inspiring beauty to the experience.

Visitors can explore the multiple levels, wander through the tranquil gardens, and imagine the lavish ceremonies and gatherings that once took place within these majestic walls. Ishak Pasha Palace stands not only as an architectural marvel but also as a tangible connection to the rich history and cultural legacy of the region.

Ishak Pasha Palace _STOCK-Pex (i̇sra Nilgün Özkan)

How to get to Ishak Pasha Palace

Located in far eastern Turkey, the Ishak Pasha Palace is actually closer to Armenia and Iran than other major Turkish cities. This means getting there takes some logistical planning. 

You’ll first have to reach the town of Dogubeyazit. You can fly into one of 2 airports: Ağrı Airport (AJI) or Iğdır Şehit Bülent Aydın Airport (IGD). Both are just over a 1 hour drive from Dogubeyazit. Once in the town, you can take a taxi or a minibus to the palace. 

Where to stay near Ishak Pasha Palace

Your best bet for finding accommodation near the Ishak Pasha Palace will be in the town of Dogubeyazit. 

Tehran Boutique Hotel (Booking)

Budget recommendation: Tehran Boutique Hotel

This well-reviewed hotel offers travelers spacious ensuite rooms with modern amenities at a reasonable nightly rate. 

20. Find peace at Sumela Monastery

Byzantine monastery perched dramatically on a cliffside in Turkey’s Pontic Mountains

travel ideas turkey

Nestled within the picturesque Pontic Mountains of Turkey, the Sumela Monastery stands as a captivating testament to Byzantine architecture and religious heritage. Built into the face of a steep cliff, the monastery seems to defy gravity. 

The peaceful setting makes it a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature. Whether exploring the historic monastery, marveling at the intricate details, or simply taking in the sweeping views, the Sumela Monastery is undoubtedly one of the coolest off-the-beaten-path places to visit in Turkey. 

Sumela Monastery_STOCK-Pex (Hayriyenur .)

How to get to Sumela Monastery

The monastery is just a 1 hour drive outside of Trabzon, Turkey. You can fly into Trabzon Airport (TZX) from other cities around Turkey. And from there you can take a minibus to the monastery. 

Alternatively, you could rent a car and road trip (the drive from Istanbul is about 15 hours), or endure a 17+ hour bus ride. 

Where to stay near Sumela Monastery

The nearest city is Trabzon (see #9) with plenty of options for accommodation. 

21. Explore Van Lake

Turkey’s largest lake

Lake Van Turkey

Nestled in the eastern part of Turkey, Van Lake is a vast expanse of turquoise waters that stretch out as far as the eye can see. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and picturesque landscapes, the lake is truly a sight to behold. 

One of the unique features of Van Lake is the number of ancient Armenian churches and monasteries that dot its shores. Exploring these ancient sites while enjoying the scenic beauty of the lake creates a truly enchanting experience for visitors.

Top things to do at Van Lake

  • Explore Akdamar Island and visit the iconic Akdamar Church
  • Discover the ruins of Van Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the lake
  • Admire the unique architecture of the Armenian Churches
  • Take a boat trip on the lake
  • Try the famous “Van breakfast” featuring traditional cheeses, honey, and pastries

Lake Van Turkey

How to get to Van Lake

The fastest and most convenient way to get to Lake Van is to fly into Van Ferit Melen Airport (VAN) from Istanbul. From there you can rent a car or take a shuttle to your accommodation on the lake. 

Where to stay at Van Lake

If you’re looking for a serene lakeside retreat, the town of Akdamar on the southern shore of Lake Van is an excellent choice. For those seeking more amenities and services, the city of Van itself provides a range of hotels, from budget-friendly to upscale. 

SARDUR HOTEL (Booking)

Budget recommendation: Sardur Hotel

This budget-friendly hotel offers a comfortable and convenient stay with its well-appointed rooms, friendly staff, and a central location in the heart of Van city. 

Ramada by Wyndham Van (Booking)

Mid-range budget: Ramada by Wyndham Van

A modern hotel that offers a comfortable stay with spacious rooms, beach access, and stunning views of Lake Van. 

22. Learn about the history of Safranbolu

Well-preserved Ottoman-era town

Safranbolu Turkey

This UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the hills of northern Turkey, is a living museum of Ottoman-era architecture. The town’s winding cobblestone streets lead visitors on a journey back in time, where they can admire the beautifully restored wooden houses and traditional bazaars. 

However, the name Safranbolu actually comes from the town’s renowned saffron production. Visitors can learn about the painstaking process of harvesting saffron threads at workshops and in the fields surrounding the town. 

Top things to do in Safranbolu, Turkey

  • Explore Safranbolu Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Discover the historic Cinci Han bazaar filled with local crafts, textiles, spices, and souvenirs
  • Climb Hidirlik Hill to enjoy panoramic views of Safranbolu’s rooftops, minarets, and the surrounding countryside
  • Experience a traditional Turkish bath (hammam) at the historic Cinci Hamamı
  • Visit the iconic Safranbolu houses , such as the İzzet Mehmet Pasha Mansion or the Hıdırlık Kulesi Evi

Safranbolu Turkey_STOCK-U (RamazanG)

How to get to Safranbolu

Located about a 4.5 hour drive east of Istanbul, there are no major airports near the town. Your best bet is to take a bus or rent a car and make the drive yourself. 

You can take a direct bus to Karabük from Istanbul or Ankara. From there, you will need to find a taxi or take the local city bus to reach Safranbolu—specifically the Old Town (Çarşı). 

Where to stay in Safranbolu

The Old Town (Çarşı) offers a range of boutique hotels and guesthouses that are right in the center of the action. Alternatively, if you prefer a more tranquil setting, the Hıdırlık Hill area provides a picturesque and peaceful stay with its stunning views.

Efe Guest House (Booking)

Budget recommendation: Efe Guesthouse

This charming and cozy guesthouse immerses guests in the traditional atmosphere of the city with its authentic Ottoman-style architecture and warm hospitality. You will have a truly authentic experience here with comfortable rooms and delicious homemade breakfast.  

Gunes Konak Otel (Booking)

Mid-range budget: Gunes Konak Otel

The highlight of staying in this budget-friendly hotel is the view from the terrace overlooking the traditional Ottoman houses in Old Town. The clean and spacious rooms are decorated to reflect the historical charm of the property. 

23. Visit Alder Canyon in the Taurus Mountains

A hidden gem of rugged beauty, dramatic cliffs and pristine waterfalls

Adler Canyon Taurus Mountains Turkey

Situated in the beautiful Taurus Mountains in southern Turkey, Alder Canyon is a nature lover’s dream. As you venture into this rugged terrain, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking vistas of steep cliffs, lush greenery, and crystal-clear streams that cascade down into inviting pools. 

The canyon’s dramatic landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for thrilling outdoor activities, such as hiking, rock climbing, and canyoning, allowing adventurers to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of nature while experiencing an adrenaline rush.

How to get to the Taurus Mountains

You can book a day trip to Alder Canyon from Side , which includes round trip transportation and lunch.

24. Summit Mount Nemrut

Ruins of an ancient kingdom that include colossal statue heads and ancient tombs

Mount Nemrut

The majestic Mount Nemrut in southeastern Turkey is an archeological marvel dating back to the ancient kingdom of Commagene. 

At its peak lies the remains of monumental statues, depicting gods and kings, meticulously arranged around a sacred sanctuary. These colossal statues, measuring up to 10 meters in height, evoke a sense of awe and wonder, while the ancient tomb chambers offer a glimpse into the religious and cultural practices of the bygone era.

Take in the breathtaking panoramic views from the 2134-meter (7,000 ft) summit as the sun rises or sets, casting an ethereal glow over the surrounding landscape.

How to get to Mount Nemrut

Mount Nemrut Turkey

The town of Karadut is the nearest town to Mount Nemrut. You’ll want to fly into the Adıyaman Airport (ADF), which is just over an hour away. From there you can take a local bus or rent a car . 

From the car park at Mount Nemrut, you’ll need to make the 600m trek to the summit. Keep in mind, this can be a challenge for some given the altitude of the peak (7,000 ft!). 

Where to stay near Mount Nemrut

When considering where to stay near Mount Nemrut, the town of Kahta offers convenient access to the archaeological site and its famous statues. 

Kahta offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels and guesthouses, catering to different budgets and preferences and allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

25. Discover Lake Tuz

Turkey’s second-largest lake and one of the largest saltwater lakes in the world

Lake Tuz Turkey_STOCK-U (Aydin Hassan)

Nestled in the heart of Central Anatolia, Turkey, Lake Tuz is a remarkable natural wonder. Spanning over 1,600 square kilometers, the lake’s most distinctive feature is its vast salt flats, which create a mesmerizing white landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. 

The reflection of the sky on the mirror-like surface of the salt flats adds to the ethereal beauty of the area, making it a photographer’s dream.

Lake Tuz is also famous for its high salt content, making it a prime location for salt production. Salt pans dot the shores of the lake, where locals have been harvesting salt for centuries. The lake’s unique mineral composition gives the water a milky-white appearance, and during the dry season, the salt flats shimmer and crack, creating fascinating geometric patterns. 

Interesting fact: Lake Tuz made global headlines in 2015 when climate conditions caused an algae overproduction and the entire lake turned bright red, drawing scientists and photographers from all over the world.  

Lake Tuz Turkey_STOCK-U (Livin4wheel)

Top things to do at Lake Tuz

  • Marvel at the salt flats of Lake Tuz  
  • If visiting during the spring or fall, you can photograph the flamingos that migrate through
  • Visit Tuz Gölü National Park , which surrounds the lake
  • Learn about salt production on a tour
  • Go stargazing at night with minimal light pollution

How to get to Lake Tuz

There is a daily bus that goes between Ankara to Tuz Gölü operated by Tuz Gölü Seyahat. The ride will take about 2 hours. 

Alternatively you could rent a car from Ankara, or the Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) in Cappadocia, which is just a 1.5-hour drive to reach the lake. 

Where to stay near Lake Tuz

The best option for visiting Lake Tuz is the town of Aksaray. Staying in Aksaray allows visitors to explore the natural beauty of Lake Tuz while also being close to other attractions in the region, such as the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia (see #2) and the ancient city of Kultepe. 

Map of Places to Visit in Turkey

Best time to visit Turkey

Turkey is best experienced during the northern hemisphere summertime. Though we would recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons, May or September to avoid overcrowding.  

Avoid traveling during Ramadan (in April) if possible and if you want a real adventure, stay for winter when the tourism dies down completely and prices are at their absolute lowest for tours and accommodation. 

You’ll find our guide to the best time to visit Turkey helpful to get the full breakdown on what makes each season distinct and unique to help cater to your trip.

How many days do you need in Turkey?

Pamukkale hot springs Turkey

How long you decide to stay depends entirely on which places in Turkey you intend to visit. 

Below is a breakdown of the number of days we’d recommend for some of the top places to visit in Turkey. The lower number of days will be for just seeing the highlights, while the higher number will allow you to spend more time really enjoying each place.

  • Istanbul: 4-6 days
  • Cappadocia: 3-5 days
  • Pamukkale: 2-3 days
  • Antalya: 2-5 days
  • Kaş: 2-5 days 
  • Fethiye / Ölüdeniz: 2-4 days
  • Bodrum: 2-5 days
  • Butterfly Valley: 1-2 days
  • Trabzon: 3-5 days
  • Çeşme: 2-5 days

Cappadocia Turkey

Trying to figure out how you can fit all these sights into one trip?? 

Unfortunately you could spend months in this beautiful country and not see everything there is to see. 

Luckily for you we’ve put together a 12-day itinerary with the highlights of Turkey. You can follow this itinerary exactly or make adjustments to it to fit your travel style. 

  • Istanbul: 4 days
  • Ephesus: 1 day
  • Pamukkale: 2 days
  • Fethiye / Ölüdeniz: 2 days
  • Cappadocia: 3 days

Day-by-day breakdown

Day 1: Arrive in Istanbul

Day 2: 

  • Free Walking Tour of Istanbul
  • Spend the rest of the day exploring the Sultanahmet neighborhood 
  • Half day cooking experience with Cookistan
  • Explore the Karaköy neighborhood, Taksim Square & Galata Tower
  • Try a traditional Hammam experience
  • Explore the Balat neighborhood in the morning
  • Fly from Istanbul to Izmir in the evening
  • Take the bus from Izmir to Ephesus (1 hour from Izmir)
  • Explore the Ephesus Archeological Zone & Museum
  • Continue on to Pamukkale (2.5 hours from Ephesus)

Day 6: 

  • Spend the day exploring Pamukkale, Hierapolis Ruins & Cleopatra’s Swimming Pool
  • Take the bus to Fathiye (3 hours from Pamukkale)
  • Spend the afternoon at Ölüdeniz Beach and try paragliding
  • Take a boat tour to Butterfly Valley for the day
  • Fly from Dalaman Airport to Cappadocia
  • Check out the town of Göreme and be sure to catch the sunset somewhere
  • Take a sunrise hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia
  • Explore the Open Air Museums
  • Catch the balloons floating over the town during sunrise
  • Have a full day to explore all the other things to do in Cappadocia
  • Catch a flight back to Istanbul and depart to your home country or next destination

How to get around Turkey

Cappadocia Turkey hot air balloons at sunrise

Turkey offers a diverse range of transportation options that cater to different preferences and budgets. The country’s extensive transportation network ensures that travelers can navigate between cities, towns, and regions with ease.

Bus travel in Turkey is known for its comfort, with many buses offering amenities such as air conditioning, reclining seats, and onboard entertainment. An extensive network of bus companies and routes makes traveling by bus throughout Turkey convenient, affordable, and widely accessible. 

Both local buses and long-distance coaches connect major cities, towns, and even remote areas. Bus terminals, known as otogar , can be found in most towns and cities, serving as hubs for arrivals and departures. 

By airplane

For those seeking a faster mode of transportation, domestic flights in Turkey are generally pretty affordable. Major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya have multiple airports, allowing travelers to conveniently reach their desired destinations. 

Domestic flights offer the advantage of saving time, particularly when covering long distances, and are a popular choice for those wanting to explore different regions of Turkey within a limited timeframe.

The Turkish State Railways (TCDD) operates a comprehensive train network that connects various cities and regions. Traveling by train allows passengers to enjoy scenic views of the countryside and offers a relaxed and comfortable journey. 

Overnight sleeper trains are available for longer distances, providing an opportunity to rest and arrive at the destination refreshed. The high-speed train service, known as the “YHT” (Yüksek Hızlı Tren), connects major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Eskişehir.

car rental in Turkey

For those who prefer flexibility and independence, renting a car in Turkey is a great option. Turkey has a well-maintained road network, and driving allows travelers to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations at their own pace. 

Car rental prices are fairly affordable in Turkey, with budget rents at just $25-30 USD per day. Drivers must be at least 21 years of age and have a valid driver’s license in their home country.

Rental car companies are available in major cities and airports, providing a range of vehicle options to suit different needs. However, it’s important to note that traffic in larger cities like Istanbul can be congested, and drivers should familiarize themselves with local driving rules.

We put together a complete guide to getting a car rental in Turkey , with all the information you need to find the best price, including tips for driving in the country.

Tips for visiting Turkey

Coast of Turkey

Before you plan a trip to Turkey, there are a few things you should keep in mind…

  • However, it is good to know that unlike in other predominantly Muslim countries, in Turkey you don’t have to cover up entirely. It is not uncommon for women to show their knees or shoulders in public.  
  • Hello = Merhaba
  • Thank you = Teşekkürler
  • Try the local cuisine. Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse dishes. Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional Turkish delights such as kebabs, mezes (appetizers), baklava, and Turkish tea. 
  • Be cautious with tap water. While tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities and tourist areas, it’s advisable to drink bottled water or use a water purifier when in doubt. This precaution can help avoid any potential stomach discomfort during your trip.
  • Be mindful of your belongings and practice common safety precautions , such as avoiding isolated areas at night and using reliable transportation options.

What to pack for traveling to Turkey

Turkey

There are a few essentials you’ll want to pack for your trip to Turkey.

  • Comfortable and lightweight clothing
  • Swimwear (if venturing to the coast)
  • Sun protection: Reef safe sunscreen , hat and sunglasses are essentials!
  • Chacos are a great sandal for walking in offering comfort, support and open-toes
  • Refillable water bottle: Packing a reusable water bottle is the best way to stay hydrated while exploring Turkey, without adding to plastic waste. 
  • Joby makes our favorite travel tripods that are small enough to pack in your day pack, handheld, and with flexible legs that can latch onto anything.

Round up of the top places to visit in Turkey

Here’s a recap of all the best places to visit in Turkey so you can see everything in one place.

  • Trabzon 
  • Koprulu Canyon
  • Patara Beach
  • Kaputas Beach
  • Ishak Pasha Palace
  • Sumela Monastery
  • Taurus Mountains
  • Mount Nemrut

If you’re headed to Turkey, we’ve got some things you should see!

We have lots of resources on travel in Turkey and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Turkey Travel Guide  for all the answers to your travel questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

  • Cheap & Fun Things to Do in Istanbul
  • Best Cooking Class in Istanbul: Cookistan
  • Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Cappadocia
  • Cappadocia Cave Hotels: Where to Stay for Every Budget

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Places to Visit in Turkey | Two Wandering Soles

We want to hear from you!

Have you been to Turkey? What was your favorite place to visit?

Are you planning a trip and still have questions? Comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Comments (25) on “ 25 Epic Places to Visit In Turkey: Must-Sees & Hidden Gems + Itinerary ”

This is an excellent itinerary to explore the best cities of Turkey. If I have to explore all the ten cities listed in the blog, how much budget will I need excluding flight tickets?

Excellent post with beautiful photographs. Thanks for your time and effort for publishing this interesting post.

Excellent guide, thanks for your hard work.

It’s a fantastic post about Turkey, which is a great place to visit Pamukkale.

This article about Turkey is nice, and it gives a great walking tour of Istanbul.

This is an amazing Itinerary.

Can you give an estimate on what the costs were in total? i understand it wont be 100% accurate but just to get a decent idea

I never comment on blogs but this was a life save. I have about 3 weeks and I wasn’t sure how or where to start! Thanks for the bonus itinerary!

Turkey is a beautiful country. I already had a coupe of things in mind, and your post has just inflated those things. The itinerary is a bonus for me. I am thankful to you for the post.

Very helpful Blog to plan our next destination. Thanks a lot!

Thanks for great post. First time traveling to Turkey and your detailed plans give me more confidence to travel solo at age 57… Learning Turkish with Duolingo – enjoyable and hope will help a bit!

Nice blog with great post, Thanks for sharing!

Bonjour pourriez vous me donner le nom de l’hôtel où vous avez dormi dans un tipi svp ? 🙂 je ne trouve pas

Thank you for this web post and information as we are nomadic to turkey in sept which is after 1 and 1/2 months so we were anxious for the same entity that whether its safe or not but your post has truly assisted me to take our choice and we are stirring to Turkey for sure.

Hi, we are planning a trip to Turkey next Sept or Oct. Do you think this would be a good time to go? Also would you be willing to tell me the must dos if we were to go for 5-6 days before a cruise. Everthing you did looks so amazing.

Turkey is a beautiful country not only because of the scene, but also the enchanting history that makes this city/country even attractive. Also thank you for this amazing list of experiences it was a good read. I have read an amazing article of places to absolutely visit in turkey.

Staying in Turkey during your holidays is alaways a good choice! There are so many lovely places to go, the people are nice and friendly and the hotels are great. I’m looking forward to going to Turkey again!

I love Turkey and I came here as an Au Pair by using http://www.aupairinturkey.com , I totally recommend this to everyone and visit this wonderful city

Another beautiful destination is Brisani bay in Albania. Brisani bay in southern Albania will surprise you with the beauty of its nature. You will find the peace that you are looking for.

Thanks a lot for inspiring post on Turkey, this magnificent country is incredible with centuries old history and culture. This wonderful post is very much resourceful for first time travelers.

its a nice article of turkey.. really good

Thanks Jay! Glad you liked it!

After having visited about 150 different sights in Turkey I’ve only got another 650 left to see! This country is absolutely amazing and I doubt I’ll ever see much more than half of the things I want to get to. I know this is an old post but if you ever come back to Turkey make sure to check out my blog about traveling in Turkey, Cheers!

Hey Josh. Turkey really surprised us too with all this things to do there! Thanks for the tips!

Your photo of Kabak Beach from above is basically the same shot I have that is my desktop background! Faralya is also my favorite place in the world (and I’ve been 3 or 4 times). Love all the photos too!

Hey Alex! Ahh we are obsessed with Faralya and hope to get back there someday in the not too distant future. After rereading all these amazing experiences we had in Turkey, it’s making me itch to get back. And I know there is still so much we didn’t explore!

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12 Days in Turkey: The 4 Best Itinerary Ideas

  • 12 Days in Turkey: The 4 Best Itinerary Ideas

Turkey is a vibrant and diverse country, offering a variety of experiences to visitors. There are plenty of places to explore for a diverse experience, including the most famous sights, such as in Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Ephesus, making it a perfect destination for families and couples.

With a 12-day time frame, you could explore the main highlights of Turkey at a leisurely pace, allowing for additional activities tailored to your preferences, such as a visit to a coastal resort or a historic city.

A 12-day itinerary combining Greece with Turkey is also a trendy choice to enjoy two civilizations in one trip. From cozy islands and stunning beaches to ancient ruins that hold stories of the past, this itinerary promises an immersive experience for all.

Read on to get more itinerary ideas for planning your upcoming trip.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Itinerary List

Itinerary 1: 12-day classic highlights of turkey, itinerary 2: 12-day historic city tour of turkey, itinerary 3: 12-day coastline exploration in turkey for a summer vacation, itinerary 4: 12-day romantic journey in turkey and greece.

This itinerary contains all of the must-see sights with a time-smart schedule, including Istanbul (the largest city in Turkey, which served as the capital of multiple empires), Cappadocia (famous for its unique volcanic landforms and strange rock formations), Ephesus (an ancient city with well-preserved Roman ruins), and Pamukkale (natural travertine terraces with thermal springs). This is perfect for first-timers to Turkey.

Below is the itinerary breakdown:

  • Days 1–4: Istanbul (Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Istiklal Avenue, a sunset Bosphorus cruise, and a food tour)
  • Days 5–7: Cappadocia (a hot-air balloon ride and a stay in a cave hotel)
  • Days 8–9: Izmir (a day trip to Ephesus and a city tour)
  • Day 10: Pamukkale (natural thermal springs and travertine terraces)
  • Days 11–12: Antalya (a free day for beach fun, Duden Waterfalls, and a city tour)

You would start your trip in Istanbul . Apart from the first day, which would be to get over the jet lag, we recommend that you explore the old and new parts of the city and relish the local cuisine for a comprehensive experience.

Admire historical heritages, such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, which are influenced by the Ottoman and Byzantine cultures, and enjoy a leisurely stroll in modern sites, such as Istiklal Avenue, to soak up the lively local atmosphere.

Additionally, your knowledgeable local guide would accompany you to taste some delicious Turkish cuisine from two continents while providing insights into their origins and evolution.

Next, you would fly to Cappadocia to explore the stunning landscape via hot-air balloon rides and hiking. Stay at a unique cave hotel and marvel at the sight of balloons floating over the valleys.

Then, you would transfer to Izmir for a day trip to the ancient city of Ephesus , famous for its well-preserved Roman ruins, which date back to the 1st century BC. It is believed that both the apostle John and Mary, the mother of Jesus, resided in Ephesus for years.

Before concluding your trip with some leisure time by the tranquil sea in Antalya , spend a night in Pamukkale . This picturesque destination boasts stunning white terraces and azure thermal springs, providing a serene and captivating atmosphere.

Are there aspects of this itinerary that you would like to change? Contact us now to start customizing your own private trip to Turkey that tends to all of your needs.

If you want to learn more about the culture and history of Turkey, this itinerary may suit you well.

Start your trip from Istanbul , then transfer to Bursa (known as Yesil Bursa for its parks and gardens), travel through Bolu (stunning natural scenery) and Ankara (the capital of Turkey), and end up in Cappadocia .

  • Days 1–3: Istanbul (the largest city in Turkey, which was the capital of many empires)
  • Days 4–5: Bursa (the first capital of the Ottoman Empire)
  • Days 6–7: Bolu (famous for its stunning natural scenery)
  • Days 8–9: Ankara (the capital city of Turkey)
  • Days 10–12: Cappadocia (an area with unique volcanic features)

Your trip begins in Istanbul , which offers a mix of historical and modern attractions, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this vibrant metropolis.

Afterward, you would travel to Bursa and explore the ancient sites, including the Grand Mosque and Bursa Citadel. Then, you would go to Bolu , a city surrounded by picturesque landscapes. You could also visit the famous Abant Lake and breathe in its fresh air and peaceful atmosphere.

Continuing your trip to Ankara , the capital of Turkey, you could uncover the fascinating history and culture of the country at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Mausoleum of Ataturk.

Your final stop would be Cappadocia , a unique destination known for its volcanic landscapes and peculiar rock formations. The best way to appreciate the incredible scenery is by taking a hot-air balloon ride. We would prepare a champagne toast for you after you have landed to celebrate this magical day and stunning scenery.

For a special treat before your departure, we would like to arrange a traditional Turkish spa, also known as a hammam, which is carefully handpicked by us, providing an amazing setting to unwind and rejuvenate from days of traveling.

Contact us now and let us create a customized private trip in this enchanting country.

Turkey's summer from June to August is a hot time to visit, as average high temperatures get up to 35°C (95°F).

This itinerary is designed to cater to those looking for an amazing adventure along the captivating coastline cities, escaping from the sweltering summer heat.

From the blue sea to the vast highlands, this itinerary leaves summer's heat behind and covers various beautiful natural landscapes, which would surely leave you in awe during this summer vacation trip.

  • Days 1–3: Antalya (a day trip to Koprulu Canyon National Park and a city tour in Kaleici)
  • Days 4–5: Kas (the Hellenistic theater and Kaputas Beach)
  • Days 6–7: Fethiye (the Lycian Way, Butterfly Valley, and a day trip to Kayakoy)
  • Day 8: Pamukkale (natural thermal springs and travertine terraces)
  • Days 9–10: Trabzon (Sumela Monastery, the Long Lake, and the viewpoint on the peak of Boztepe)
  • Days 11–12: Rize (Ayder Plateau and a visit to a tea garden)

Antalya , Kas , and Fethiye are renowned beach resorts located on the Turquoise Coast of the Mediterranean. Each destination offers a unique and diverse range of experiences and features.

Antalya boasts the enchanting Kaleici District, characterized by its historic Ottoman houses. Meanwhile, Kas houses the fascinating ancient Greek theater, adding historical charm to its appeal. Lastly, Fethiye showcases the stunningly beautiful coastline of the Lycian Way, making it a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Before you fly to Trabzon , take a stop at spectacular Pamukkale , famous for its stunning white terraces and thermal springs. Take your family for a dip in the warm waters and marvel at the magic of nature.

Trabzon is a city mix of history, natural beauty, and mystery. Visit the stunning Sumela Monastery hidden amid lush greenery and explore Long Lake. Some routes are only known by a few, but, with your local guide, you wouldn't miss any hidden gems.

Finally, you would arrive in Rize , where you could explore tea plantations and enjoy the breathtaking scenery on the Ayder Plateau. Your kids would be thrilled to learn how to toast tea leaves and save them as a unique souvenir for their friends.

If this itinerary doesn't completely meet your preferences, feel free to contact us to tailor a private trip to Turkey that caters to all of your specific needs.

It is possible to plan a trip combining Turkey and Greece in 12 days. With this well-planned itinerary, you could fully enjoy a relaxed-pace vacation and experience the best that both countries could offer.

Your trip would start from Istanbul in Turkey, exploring the historic city, and then you would fly to Cappadocia to take in its unique volcanic landscapes. Afterward, you would catch a flight to Athens , the capital of Greece, via Izmir . You would conclude your trip in Mykonos , known for its vibrant nightlife, right after spending some amazing days in Santorini amongst its stunning scenery and architecture.

  • Days 1–3: Istanbul, Turkey (city tours for historical heritage and modern sites)
  • Days 4–5: Cappadocia (known for its unique volcanic landscapes)
  • Days 6–8: Athens, Greece (the ancient capital city of Greece)
  • Days 9–10: Santorini (famous for its beautiful shores and white seaside buildings)
  • Days 11–12: Mykonos (an island famous for vibrant nightlife and an inclusive ambiance)

One of the highlights of this itinerary is that you could enjoy beautiful scenery in diverse ways. Experience the stunning beauty of Cappadocia from high above by taking a hot-air balloon ride and bask in bright azure surroundings while cruising the Aegean Sea aboard a private yacht .

Another highlight is the chance to enjoy delicious Aegean cuisine while watching a stunning sunset over Santorini. After the sun slowly sinks below the horizon, a waiter would light a candle for you, and you would spend an unforgettable night with your loved one in the flickering candlelight.

Traveling with Global Highlights ensures a hassle-free itinerary, allowing you to make the most of your time and conserve energy to fully enjoy your vacation.

This itinerary could be customized according to your preferences, contact us now and feel free to add or modify destinations and experiences based on your interests.

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Home > 14 Day Turkey Itinerary – Ultimate 2 Weeks In Turkey

14 Day Turkey Itinerary – Ultimate 2 Weeks In Turkey

Post author Mehmet

Written by our local expert Mehmet

Mehmet is digital nomad who was born in Istanbul, Türkiye and now calls the Balkans region his home-office.

Please allow me to help you plan your Turkey Trip. I have been many times.

Below, you will find the ultimate guide on how to spend 2 weeks in Türkiye. This 14 day Turkey itinerary covers historical sites, the outdoors, food stops & more.

Turkey Travel Blog_14 Day Itinerary In Turkey

Turkey is among the best travel destinations in the world. When planning your trip to Turkey, keep in mind that Turkey is located in both Asia and Europe, giving it a mix of elements from both worlds to charm you.

The mosques in Istanbul tell tales of the country’s rich history and the remains of the ancient cities of Hierapolis and Ephesus to transport you centuries back in time like a time traveler.

The whimsical fairy chimneys of Cappadocia mesmerize you, and the quintessential Turkish Coffee takes your tastebuds for a joyride.

So, if you’ve selected Turkey as your destination, congratulations on a well-made decision!

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Places We’ll Visit On This 2 Week Turkey Itinerary

This 14 days in Turkey itinerary guide will cover these places;

  • Istanbul – one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Turkey
  • Hierapolis-Pamukkale

14 day trip made for you!

  •  🏰 Istanbul, Izmir, Bodrum, Fethiye, Antalya, Konya, Cappadocia – The Ultimate Turkish Adventure
  • 🏖️ Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, Konya, Cappadocia – A Brief Best of Turkey

Day 1 To 4 Travel In Turkey: Istanbul Itinerary 

Colorful sights if Balat, Istanbul Turkey

Your Turkey trip is best begun by exploring one of its major cities, Istanbul. Istanbul is a city in Turkey with a long and complex history. It has been inhabited since at least the 7th millennium BC, and Several different empires and civilizations have ruled the Turkish people over the centuries.

First known as Constantinople, it was the capital of the Byzantine Empire founded by the Greeks, which later fell to the Ottoman Turks, and the city was renamed Istanbul. Over the years, the city has undergone massive transformations to become one of the world’s largest and most vibrant cities today.

I’d highly recommend spending 3 to 4 days in the vibrant city of Istanbul to soak in its culture, rewind to the past, and delve into its history. Stay in the old part of town, near Sultanahmet, the historic heart of the city.

The must-visit sites – Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, and the Spice Bazaar – are within walking distance. The Hagia Sophia fascinated me the most, with elements of Christianity and Islam existing simultaneously. Your first full day in the city should be spent visiting these historical sites.

Lesser Known Istanbul Street Foods -

Istiklal Street in Istanbul is among the most famous streets in the city. Bustling with cafes, restaurants, shops, and live music, it shows the vibrant and modern part of the city. For the next day, spend at least half the day strolling on the main street and checking out Taksim Square , another historical place in Istanbul.

One of my favorite experiences in Istanbul is watching the whirling dervishes show.

It is a meditation practice performed by Sufi groups using dance and music as their offering to God. The group performing on stage had their eyes closed, and despite that, they were in perfect sync with each other. This is a one-hour show which can be watched in the evening.

Whirling Dervish Istanbul-4

Begin the next day with a visit to the 17th-century Spice Bazaar, one of Istanbul’s most colorful, bustling main attractions.

Next, travel the Golden Horn on your way to an unforgettable cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, the majestic strait that runs through Istanbul, linking Europe and Asia. From the cruise boat, you can view the dramatic sights lining the Bosphorus’ wooded shores: mosques, a bridge that for a time was the world’s longest, and Rumeli Hisari, a massive fortress built by Mehmet the Conqueror in just three months as he prepared to take Istanbul.

Part of what you can see in Turkey on this tour are the 19th-century mansions of the Ottoman elite and the Sultans’ fanciful gingerbread palaces and hunting lodges.

Do not leave Istanbul without experiencing the Hammam – a Turkish body scrubbing, washing, and massage experience. For the best Hammam experience, go to the Haseki Hurrem Sultan Hammam, which dates back to the 16th century. It’s located in the middle of the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia Mosque.

It is far too hard to list exactly what to do in Istanbul for a few days, as there is so much on offer. So, take your pick from the ideas below. These Istanbul guides will ensure your few days in this metropolis are a total blast.

  • Exploring Istanbul With Kids
  • Istanbul Beaches
  • Here Is How Many Days In Istanbul Is Enough
  • Where To Eat In Istanbul – Turkey Travel Guide
  • Best Hammam In Istanbul
  • 4 Days In Istanbul Itinerary
  • 16 Things To Do In Istanbul, Turkey
  • Whirling Dervishes In Istanbul
  • Your Guide To Sultanahmet Istanbul
  • Top Palaces In Istanbul
  • 48 Hours In Istanbul 
  • Is Istanbul Safe
  • 18 Best Mosques In Istanbul
  • Istanbul Nightlife
  • Shopping In Istanbul
  • Where To Stay In Istanbul
  • Best Hotels In Taksim Square In Istanbul
  • The Best Festivals in Istanbul
  • 1 Day In The Colorful Balat Istanbul
  • Best Museums In Istanbul
  • Top Hotels Near The Blue Mosque
  • 5 Biggest Istanbul Tourist Scams To Avoid
  • Best Breakfast In Istanbul Travel Guide
  • Romantic Places In Istanbul
  • Things To Do In Istanbul In Winter

Day 5: Day 5 Fly To Izmir, Stay 1 Night In Kusadasi

Kusadasi - Aegean Coast Turkey

The next destination in Turkey covers the pool terraces of Pamukkale and the ancient city of Ephesus.

Take a domestic flight to Izmir with Turkish Airlines or Pegasus (low-cost carrier) and stay overnight in Kusadasi, which is the perfect base. Kusadasi is a coastal town on the Western coast of Turkey. You can enjoy a walk along its seafront promenade as soon as you arrive.

Editors Note: Domestic flights in Turkey are exceptionally well organized and efficient. Do not be afraid to travel long distances by plane. To get the most out of your 2-week Turkey itinerary, flights are recommended.  I promise that you will save a lot of travel time when you do.

  • How To Spend 5 Days In Turkey
  • How To Spend 7 Days In Turkey

Day 6: Pamukkale Hot Springs & Ancient Tour Of Turkey

Dry Cotton Castle Pamukkale

From Kusadasi, rent a car and drive around 2.5 hours inland to Pamukkale.

Plan your trip so you leave early to enjoy the spas, pools, and terraces of this natural wonder called the ‘Cotton Castle.’ This name is truly fitting; the brilliant white calcified terraces resemble a cotton castle. Also, spend extra time in Hieropolis, one of the world’s largest and most diverse necropolises.

Of all the things to do in Turkey, this was in my top 5 best experiences!

Editors Note: A road trip around Turkey is effortless; the roads are in excellent condition, and the tolls are minimal, making it very easy to travel around on four wheels.

  • Your Guide To Pamukkale
  • Your Guide To Hieropolis

Day 7 Of Your 2 Week Itinerary: Ephesus Tour; Fly To Cappadocia

14 days in Turkey - Ephesus

Begin the Ephesus tour with a visit to The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, one can only see the ruins of the foundations, entirely made of marble and full of sculptured columns’ capitals and shafts.

Next, visit the archaeological site of the ancient Greco-Roman City of Ephesus. Enter Ephesus through the Magnesia Gate and begin a slow, downhill walk into the ruins of this Roman provincial capital.

Go past the Odeon Theater, the Celsius Library, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan, and the Great Theater. The theater seats 24,000 spectators and is still used for local festivals and concerts.

Visit The House of the Virgin Mary, which is considered a holy place for both Christians and Muslims alike. This is the official site recognized by the Vatican as the residence where the Virgin Mary spent her final days. Experience a tranquil atmosphere for prayer and meditation.

Take a late evening flight to Cappadocia – one of the best places in Turkey to wake up. You will see what I mean tomorrow.

  • How To Get From Pamukkale To Cappadocia

Day 8 To Day 10: 2 Nights Cappadocia Itinerary

Cappadocia Red Tour Vs Green Tour - Pigeon Valley

Flying in the hot air balloons in Cappadocia will surely tick off a bucket list item that you will remember for years to come! The weather , though, can be notorious, so as far as possible, plan your stay in Cappadocia on days with good weather predictions.

I, unfortunately, couldn’t catch the hot air balloon ride owing to snowfall, but I don’t think for a minute that my Cappadocian adventure was ruined. Cappadocia is a beautifully unique place on earth, with its whimsical fairy chimneys waiting to charm you.

Make sure you stay in one of the cave hotels in Cappadocia . Visit the Göreme open-air museum. Visit Devrent Valley, Pasabagi, and Avanos for the rest of the day. This completes the Northern region of Cappadocia.

There’s more. The Southern region of Cappadocia has a lot to mesmerize you, too. Trek along the beautiful Rose Valley and visit Kaymakli (or Ozkonak) Underground City , where early Christians lived in fear and faith. On the way back, make sure you visit the panoramic Pigeon Valley, where pigeons contributed to the lives of locals with their manure to fertilize the vineyards.

  • Things To Do In Cappadocia

Day 11: Drive To Antalya Day

Best beaches in Turkey - Kaputas beach Antalya

Direct flights from Cappadocia aren’t always available, so consider driving to Antalya. This is a seven-hour drive and would almost take up your entire day.

  • What To See In Antalya

Day 12 to 13: Explore Antalya

What To See In Antalya - Waterfall Duden at Antalya, Turkey

The best way to end your trip would be to relax for two full days in Antalya , which is famous for its Mediterranean coast and archaeological sites from the Greek and Roman eras. The region is blessed with stunning natural beauty, including beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and magnificent mountains.

The city of Antalya itself is home to many historical landmarks, including Hadrian’s Gate, the Yivli Minaret, and the Antalya Museum, which houses artifacts from ancient civilizations.

Plan to visit the Duden Waterfall and have a great time in the old town of Antalya . You may visit the ruins of Aspendos nearby or go rafting at Koprulu Canyon National Park if you’re feeling adventurous. The Taurus Mountains, which run along the Turkish Riviera, are a popular destination for hiking and mountain biking. Relax at the beautiful Antalyan Beaches – Konyaalti or Lara – whichever is closer.

  • How To Choose Between Bodrum & Antalya

Day 14: Depart Back Home 

The tram stopped at the column of Constantine in Istanbul

Depending on your flight home, you might have enough time in Istanbul to keep exploring, or perhaps you’ll head to Greece. We totally recommend that option.

14 days around Turkey tours made for you!

Brands we use and trust, history of turkey.

Did Turkey Change Its Name To Turkiye

Before we get started on your Turkey 2-week itinerary guide, let’s chat about the history. Turkey has a long and fascinating history that spans thousands of years. In ancient times, the region was home to powerful civilizations such as the Hittites, Greeks, and Romans, who left a lasting legacy through impressive architectural ruins and cultural artifacts. In the 14th century, the Ottoman Turks rose to power and established a vast empire that lasted for centuries, spanning across Europe, Asia, and Africa. However, by the early 20th century, the Ottoman Empire was in decline.

After World War I, Turkey became a republic under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and formed a secular, democratic government. Today, Turkey is one of the most popular modern nations with a rich cultural heritage and a diverse population, and it plays a vital role in global politics and economics.

Here are a few questions you may have about spending two weeks in Turkey;

What is the currency in Turkey?

The currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira . ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas. Withdraw Liras from your debit/travel cards.

Do I need a visa for Turkey?

You need a visa and a passport with an expiration date of at least 180 days beyond the duration of your stay. Check out the guidelines here.

What language do they speak in Turkey?

Turkish is the most widely spoken language in Turkey. English is not widely spoken; download the Turkish language on Google Translate for easy communication.

What is the best time to visit Turkey?

Turkey can be visited at any time of the year. I visited Turkey in the month of December, which is not a conventional time to visit, though I had a lovely experience. Plan at your convenience, though, if you can, then avoid heavy crowds from June to August. 

Editors note:  The best months to visit Turkey are April, May, September, and October. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and there are fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season.

What is a suggested 2-week itinerary for traveling in Turkey?

We recommend starting your trip in Istanbul and then visiting Cappadocia , Antalya, Fethiye, Pamukkale, Kuşadası, and Ephesus.

How much time should I spend in Turkey?

A 2-week trip is ideal to see the major highlights of Turkey and experience its diverse attractions and destinations.

What are some must-visit places in Turkey?

During your 2-week itinerary, make sure to visit Istanbul , Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Troy, and Gallipoli, as they are some of Turkey’s most significant archaeological and historical sites.

What are some activities I can do in Turkey?

You can enjoy various activities in Turkey, such as taking a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, going on a boat tour in Fethiye, exploring Istanbul’s cosmopolitan neighborhoods, hiking in scenic landscapes, and visiting multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites.

How can I book online for activities and accommodations in Turkey?

There are several online platforms where you can book activities and accommodations for your trip to Turkey. Some popular options include Booking.com and GetYourGuide.

Is it safe to travel in Turkey?

Turkey is generally a safe country to travel in. However, it’s always a good idea to stay informed about the current situation and follow any travel advisories issued by your home country’s government.

What are some suggested places to visit in Ankara?

In Ankara , you can explore the city center, visit the Ataturk Mausoleum, explore the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and wander around the old town of Ulus. It is recommended to stay near the city center for easy access to these attractions.

How do I travel from Ankara to Istanbul?

There are several transportation options available, including taking a flight, a train, a bus, or driving by car. Choose the option that suits your preferences and budget.

What can I do in Istanbul on the final day of my trip?

On your final day in Istanbul, you can visit any remaining attractions on your list, go souvenir shopping in the Grand Bazaar or Spice Bazaar, and indulge in delicious local cuisine before your departure.

What food to eat in Turkey? 

Turkey is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, influenced by its history and cultural heritage. Some traditional Turkish foods you MUST try when visiting:

  • Kebabs: A must-try when you plan your trip to Turkey.  Turkish kebabs are a must-try when you plan your trip to Turkey. You can find different types, such as shish kebab (grilled meat on a skewer), Adana kebab (spicy minced meat), and doner kebab (slow-cooked meat on a rotating spit)
  • Baklava: this sweet pastry is made with layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and syrup or honey. It’s often served with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee. I strongly suggest you pick some up to share with your friends and family back home!
  • Turkish Delight: this soft, chewy candy is made with sugar, starch, and flavorings like rosewater or pistachios. It comes in different colors and flavors and is a popular souvenir to take home
  • Turkish Coffee: Turkish coffee is a traditional way of preparing coffee using finely ground coffee beans brewed with very little water, resulting in a concentrated coffee with a thick and frothy layer on top. I never enjoyed black coffee until I tried Turkish Coffee when I landed in Istanbul . To date, it remains the best coffee I’ve sipped in my life
  • Apple Tea: even if you’re not an avid tea drinker, I recommend you sip the hot apple tea in the traditional pear-shaped tea cups. It’s an experience in itself!

Find more tasty food to eat in Turkey here.

Turkey has so much to offer to a traveler . The history, the culture, the architecture, the food, fairy chimneys, ancient cities, and the ocean. The list seems endless. It is a gem of a destination and a place to visit in Turkey during your lifetime. It is a trip I hold very dearly in my heart, and I am sure you will, too.

Now that you have your 2 weeks in Turkey guide, tell us, how many days will you travel in Turkey?

  • Rental Car & Driving In Turkey
  • What To Wear In Turkey – Area By Area Guide
  • 34 Do’s & Don’ts To Visiting Turkey
  • The Best Time To Visit Turkey
  • What To Eat In Turkey
  • How To Plan To Visit Turkey On A Budget

For more detailed guides and itineraries from Shreya Kejriwal, check here.  

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Road Trip EuroGuide

27 Iconic Things To Do In Turkey For First Timers

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I just got back from an epic road trip through Turkey , and holy crap, this country has so many things to do and see that it blew my little American mind!

I’ve gathered my thoughts, learned from my mistakes what works and what doesn’t, and put together a list of my favorite things from the trip – ideas to get you started!

I’ve also included a few road trip travel tips around safety, when, and where to go .

Table of Contents

Things To Do In Turkey

To start us off, the first 18 things to do in Turkey will be the iconic highlights, the historic, the Instagram-worthy – mostly outside of Istanbul.

The next 9 things are all in and around Istanbul because the city is a mood of its own. And there are a couple of surprises at the end – my little gem favorites!

1. Take a Balloon Ride in Cappadocia

One of the unique things to do in Turkey is to take a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia at sunrise. After all, these balloon rides are the symbol of the region for a reason, and I’m telling you from experience – it’s unforgettable!

A balloon ride in Cappadocia is one of the most unique things to do in Turkey.

This area of Turkey is famous for its strange rock formations, known as “fairy chimneys”, and the best way to see these odd masses of rock is from above. Of course, the balloons themselves are a sight to behold. With their vivid colors and hugeness, they add an element of childlike fun to the experience, and it feels surreal to be up in the air surrounded by other floating giants.

Plan on staying at least 2-3 days max in Cappadocia in case the weather and wind shift and the aviation association won’t let balloons fly on the day you book. There are wonderful hiking trails around, as well as a Turkish Bath and other activities in the town to occupy the time.

📍 Where To Stay

The center of all the tours and hikes in Cappadocia is the town of Goreme. The town is set up for tourism and there are plenty of wonderful boutique hotels, as well as bed and breakfasts and hostels.

➡️ Butterfly Hot Air Balloons are known to fly the highest compared to other companies – I highly recommend them!

2. Experience a Turkish Bath

Nothing I can write will prepare you for a Turkish Bath experience, so I will attempt to inform you as much as possible while still leaving a little mystery to reflect on. Often called a hammam, these baths are a traditional way of treating oneself in Turkish culture.

A Turkish hammam is on the things to do list for sure!

The experience usually starts with a steam room, where you can sit and sweat out all the toxins in your body. This is followed by vigorous scrubbing with a coarse cloth, which exfoliates the skin and leaves you feeling like a newborn baby bum. Finally, you finish off with a dip in a cool pool or shower. And before you ask, yes, you are nakey naked except for one little towelette.

Note: The part that surprises everyone is that all of these steps are done for you (and to you) by a professional. When was the last time someone bathed, scrubbed, and wrapped you like a baby!?

While it may sound like a lot of work, a Turkish bath is actually quite relaxing and is an excellent way to experience the local culture. Almost every city has a Turkish bath, but a few of my favorites are in Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir. The prices will range drastically from $40 – $160. While the treatment is the same, the facilities are the factor to consider here.

➡️ I went with this Turkish Bath Experience in a 600-year-old bath house in Istanbul!

3. Wander Through the Ruins of Ephesus

A visit to the ruins of Ephesus should definitely be on your list, especially if you are considering taking a trip down the west Mediterranean coast of Turkey. This ancient city was once one of the most powerful and influential in the ancient world, and today its ruins provide a fascinating glimpse into the past.

The ancient city of Ephesus is a culture forward gem of thing to do in Turkey.

A few fun facts I learned on my tour:

  • Ephesus is where Cleopatra and Marc Antoni went on their honeymoon
  • The Gospel of John was likely written here
  • The city was a booming commercial hub founded in the 3rd century BC, bringing together Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians alike before malaria and war finally took it down
  • There was a secret tunnel from the library to the whore house right across the street from the photo below ( the more you know! )

This place is quite possibly even cooler than visiting Pompeii in Italy. Wander through the streets and marvel at the huge amphitheater, where chariot races and gladiatorial battles once took place. Or explore the baths, which were used by Roman citizens to relax and socialize. It’s surreal!

Where To Stay

You can’t stay in Ephesus, so most people (myself included) drive from a nearby town they are staying in. Towns like Izmir, Kusadasi, and Selcuk are popular spots to stay in.

➡️ Highly recommend this Walking Tour to explain all the history and secrets!

4. Sample Turkish Coffee & Tea

When in Turkey, do as the locals do and enjoy a little piece of Turkish culture at the same time! I am not exaggerating when I tell you the Turks drink coffee and tea like it’s a religion, at least 5+ times a day.

Turkish tea is a huge part of the Turkish culture and something you need to drink.

Turkish coffee is made with very finely ground coffee beans and boiled water. It’s then served in small cups with a layer of foam on top. When you take a sip, you’ll notice the distinct flavor of the coffee beans as well as the sweetness from the sugar that’s added during brewing. Turkish coffee is a must-try for any coffee lover visiting Turkey.

Turkish tea is its equally strong partner! Brewed with loose leaves and boiling water, it’s typically served in a small glass. Sugar is added to taste, and the tea is often enjoyed alongside small snacks like Turkish Delight (or in many cases a cigarette – lots of people smoke in Turkey).

Travel Tip: When you take your first sip, you’ll notice a slightly bitter flavor. Don’t worry – the taste grows on you, and before long you’ll be addicted to this delicious national beverage.

5. Snack on Baklava & Turkish Delights

As stated above, there are two things you absolutely have to try with your Turkish coffee: baklava and Turkish Delight. Baklava is a sweet pastry made from layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and held together with syrup or honey. It’s rich and sweet, and the perfect way to end a meal.

Snaking on Turkish delights is a must do thing in Turkey!

Turkish Delight, on the other hand, is a chewy candy made from gelatin, sugar, and flavoring. It’s often dusted with powdered sugar and sometimes contains nuts or fruit. Both baklava and Turkish Delight are available throughout Turkey, you can see brightly lit stores lined with these colorful treats everywhere in the cities, so be sure to give them a try!

Did You Know: Cold Baklava and hot Turkish Coffee are a thing?! I don’t know if it’s because I come from Romania, but I always thought Baklava was supposed to be eaten warm. I stand corrected!

6. Swim the Thermal Pools of Pamukkale

Pamukkale is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey . Its name means “cotton castle” in Turkish, and it is easy to see why: the white travertine deposits that line the cliff create a fairy-tale landscape of little pools. Now, there are a few natural pools like these in the world, but you know what – this one is stunning!

You have to go early in the morning to get Pammukale all to yourself in Turkey!

You can swim in the thermal waters, which are said to have healing properties or explore the ruins of the ancient city of Hierapolis. With its stunning landscapes and rich history, Pamukkale is a must-see for anyone visiting Turkey.

This little spot seems to be in the middle of nowhere, sort of out of the way of everything, but I do recommend staying near Pammukale so you don’t have to drive hours in and out of this spot. That said, Kusadasi and Ephesus (the town of Selcuk) are probably the nearest other spots on this list – pair them together if you’re on a road trip!

➡️ This is a great Tour of Pamukkale and Hierapolis including lunch & a private guide!

7. Hike Up Mt. Nemrut

Every year, thousands of people make the pilgrimage to the summit of Mount Nemrut to see the statues of ancient kings. The journey to the top is not an easy one, but it is well worth the effort. The trail is well-marked and relatively steep, but hikers are rewarded with some of the most incredible views in all of Turkey.

One of the things I still want to do in Turkey is hike up Mt. Nemrut.

At the summit, visitors can explore the ancient ruins of a once-great city and see some of the world’s most impressive head statues – think Easter Island, but on top of a huge mountain. Mount Nemrut is an unforgettable experience and one of the things that makes Turkey such a special place.

Fun Fact: The statues represent a mix of Roman, Persian, and Armenian gods, and they are believed to have been built to honor the king who ruled in that region. He was trying to represent all the different Gods as equal on either side of the mountain in an attempt to keep the peace. As history has it, peace did not last.

Although I did not do this activity on my own on this road trip, I was advised by locals to do the trick with a tour group for a few reasons: the starting point is further east than you might imagine and it’s quite a logistical feat to get there – driving or flying is advised. Furthermore, it’s more informative and safe to hike this mountain with locals and fellow trekkers!

➡️ My Cappadocia host recommended this 3-Day Tour to Mt. Nemrut !

8. Hike Through Butterfly Valley

One of my favorite places on this road trip was Butterfly Valley, which is located in the southwestern part of the country. The hike itself is fairly easy, and there are plenty of places to rest or camp along the way. Plus, you’ll have the chance to see some amazing wildlife up close. The valley is home to a number of plants and animals, making it a great place to explore.

Me at the top, before driving and hiking down into Butterfly Valley - definitely a cool thing to do in Turkey!

The best place to stay here is somewhere around the town of Oludeniz, which is the center of tourism in the area, and for a good reason – it’s beautiful. If you’re looking for a more low-key spot to stay, I recommend somewhere near Kabak Beach. It’s best if you have a car and can explore different hikes around the Butterfly Valley.

Travel Tip: Sadly, if you’re looking for the butterflies, they have all gone due to over-tourism and people mucking up their habitat. The hikes along the cliffside are still stunning, just set your expectations around butterflies.

9. Paraglide Over Oludeniz & The Blue Lagoon

Turkey is a land of stunning natural beauty, and there are few things more thrilling than paragliding over the country’s famous turquoise waters. Oludeniz, located in southwest Turkey, is one of the most popular spots for paragliding, snorkeling, and hiking, and it’s not hard to see why.

Motion sickness did kick in on this adventure in Turkey.- but it's still makes the list of things to do!

The views are simply breathtaking, and there’s nothing quite like soaring over the famous Blue Lagoon. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity to add to your travels, paragliding in Oludeniz is definitely it. There are quite a few vendors as you walk around the town offering paragliding, below is what I booked.

All of the tours and tourist attractions are in the town of Oludeniz itself, so I recommend staying there or nearby. If you’re looking for a more low-key place, the neighboring Kayakoy town 15 minutes away offers cute lodging at a more budget price – but it’s still fancy!

➡️ I booked with this Paragliding Company , and it was WOW!

10. Sail Around the Turkish Riviera

One of the more unique ways to explore Turkey is by sailing around the coastline around what is called the Turquoise coast. I’m talking about a proper 7-8 day adventure on a traditional Turkish gulet boat! This gives you the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and go all out and off the beaten path into secluded coves and hidden beaches firsthand.

On a boat somewhere in a little cove in Turkey - because it's one of those things you have to do once in your life!

This is quite a popular activity, and you can easily find a sailing charter that will suit your needs. Whether you want to relax on the beach or dock and explore the towns along the Turkish Riviera, sailing around the coastline and different islands is a great way to see it all.

➡️ This Turkish Riviera 7-Day Yacht Tour covers a lot of my favorite spots on this list!

11. Relax on the Beaches of Izmir

Izmir is one of Turkey’s biggest cities and it’s a great place to visit if you’re looking to get out of Istanbul. It’s known for its friendly people, blue coastal waters, and lovely weather. And if you’re a fan of Turkish food, you’ll definitely want to try some of the delicious seafood dishes that Izmir is known for.

I take my to do list very seriously when it comes to laying on a beach.

There are plenty of things to see and do in Izmir, from visiting the ancient city of Ephesus (which is only 1-hour drive away) to taking a cable car up Mount Hasan. You can also find great shopping and dining in Izmir, as well as a lively nightlife scene – think chic rooftop bars and clubs!

I like to stay closest to the waterfront to enjoy the best views of Izmir. There are plenty of Airbnb options, but don’t discount the Mariott’s and such hotels in the city, as their rooftop bars and sunset views are spectacular!

➡️ This is a great Ephesus Day Trip from Izmir if you don’t have a car.

12. Walk The Lycian Way

One of the best things to do in Turkey is to walk portions of the Lycian way. This ancient footpath stretches for over 500 kilometers along the Mediterranean coast and takes in some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. It’s one of those pilgrimage walks, so if you were to walk it end to end, it would take you 1-2 months.

The Lycian Way is one of the things to do in Turkey if you get down to the south west end.

The Lycian way is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, making it a great option for travelers of all fitness levels. Along the way, you’ll pass through olive groves, Mediterranean forests, and a rugged coastline, with plenty of opportunity to stop, camp, and explore. If you’re looking for an adventure in Turkey that will take you off the beaten track , then walking the Lycian way is definitely for you.

Travel Tip: I walked portions of the Lycian Way when I was traveling through Oludeniz and the Butterfly Valley, but also when I was staying in Kalkan and near the town of Kas. Because it’s such a widespread path, you can choose your adventure!

13. Party The Night Away in Bodrum

The city of Bodrum is located on the Aegean Sea, and is a popular resort town for tourists. That said, think a much smaller version of Mykonos. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue water, and vibrant nightlife. There are many things to do in Bodrum, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and exploring the city’s many shops and restaurants.

Live music and dancing included in the parties of Turkey!

Bodrum is also home to a number of historical sites, such as the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. If you’re looking for a fun and exotic place to vacation, Bodrum is the perfect destination.

Anywhere in the small town is great! I stayed around Joy Art Cafe , which was convenient, and in the center of everything.

➡️ Date Night Activity: Dinner in a Vinyard at sunset in Bodrum!

14. Grab a Dinner of Ciğ Köfte, Doner Kebap & Raki

Turkey is a land of contrasts, with a rich culture and history that has been shaped by its position at the crossroads of East and West. And its cuisine is no different, offering a delicious mix of influences from across the region. And guess what, Turkish cuisine is much more than Kebaps – but i’m including them in this “things to do in Turkey” because it’s so iconic!

A Turkish meal is full of meat and all sorts of spices, and you have to try everything from doner, to yogurt dishes, to sweets and raki!

Back to enjoying a more traditional meal that includes grilled liver with onions, ciğ köfte, doner kebab, and raki. Let me explain – ciğ köfte is minced lamb meatballs that are seasoned with spices and grilled over charcoal. Doner kebap, on the other hand, is a more traditional dish of lamb that has been slowly roasted on a vertical spit. And raki is a fiery spirit made from grape skins and aniseed.

Enjoying these dishes together is a delicious way to get a taste of the different flavors of Turkey. I love doing Food Tours in cities because it’s a different way to learn the culture and history of a people!

➡️ Loved this Istanbul Food Tour , a great introduction to weird foods I might not have otherwise tried!

15. Explore Goreme National Park & Pigeon Valley

When visiting Turkey, Goreme National Park and Pigeon Valley are definitely worth exploring. The park is home to a particularly unique landscape, with towering rock formations that look like giant penis’s and cave dwellings scattered throughout.

Exploring Pigeon Valley in Turkey.

The best way to explore the park is on foot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. There are plenty of things to see and do in the park, from visiting the open-air museum to hiking through the valleys and finding yourself here for sunset.

Pigeon Valley, in particular, is a must-see. The valley gets its name from the thousands of pigeons that nest in the cliffs, and it offers stunning views out over Cappadocia. Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply want to appreciate nature, Goreme National Park and Pigeon Valley are definitely worth hiking through when you are in Cappadocia.

I recommend staying in the town of Goreme. The town is set up for tourists and there are plenty of wonderful boutique hotels, as well as bed and breakfasts and hostels. It is where I stayed, making it super convenient to do everything I wanted in Cappadocia.

➡️ Recommend this Sunset Horseback Riding tour as a nice way to end a day of hiking!

16. Roadtrip Along the Turkish Riviera

I spent a whole month driving from Istanbul south along the Turkish Riviera, looped around to Cappadocia, and back up to Istanbul. The country is so large, even with a month, I only stayed about 3 nights in each iconic spot on this list.

Here is my recommended route:

  • 4 Days in Istanbul: Check out my recommendations for things to do below!
  • 3 Days in Cappadocia: Hot Air Balloon ride, hiking in Goreme & Pigeon Valley
  • 3 Days in Antalya: Manovgat Waterfalls, Adrasan Hike, Beaches, Party in the Old Town
  • 3 Days in Kalkan/Kas: Beach Life, Boating Around the little coves, hiking the coastline
  • 3 Days in Oludeniz/Fethiye: Paraglide over the sea, swim in the famous Blue Lagoon
  • 2 Days in Bodrum: party in the old town, sunsets by the windmills, a day trip on a catamaran
  • 1 Day at Ephesus: visit the ancient ruins and the house of Mother Mary ( from the Bible! )
  • 2 Days in Izmir: Beach days and rooftop bars at night!

This is the town of Kas, on the list of places to go and see when on your Turkey road trip!

➡️ Travel Tip: Rent a Car like I did , and hit the road!

17. Get A Famous Turkish Haircut

I am not joking with you when I say, Turkish men and women have got their look down to a beautiful science. I have never seen so many well-manicured men in my life, bless the hairdressers on every corner of Istanbul and Turkey!

My $21 haircut and color - a must do when in Turkey!

Literally just walked into a little hair spot across the street from my b&b because the colorist had unicorn-colored hair, and this happened for $21. Also, a hair wash and blowout/styling costs around $7. I almost stopped washing my hair myself altogether in Turkey because the service is so good and cheap!

Hair Salon I Loved: Por Atolye . But literally anywhere is great, and I just popped into 4 different random salons across Turkey in my 2 months there!

18. Explore the Underground City in Nevsehir

When most people think of Turkey, they picture the sandy beaches of the coast or the bustling streets of Istanbul.

However, there is much more to this country than meets the eye. In the central region of Nevsehir, for instance, lies an underground city that has been carved out of the soft rock beneath the earth’s surface.

I almost got lost in the Underground City in Cappadocia - a must do when in the area!

This city was once home to thousands of people, and it even served as a refuge from invaders. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can explore its many chambers and passages.

If you’re looking for something a little different to do on your next trip to Turkey, be sure to add the Underground City to your itinerary.

The best home base to do this activity is in Cappadocia, specifically from the town of Goreme.

➡️ The Green Tour in Cappadocia is super popular and includes an amazing lunch in the Ihlara Valley!

Things To Do In Istanbul

I don’t know how to say this so it doesn’t sound so mind-blowing, but Istanbul is the city that spans two continents, both Europe and Asia. In fact, when we look at places to stay in Istanbul, even the Turks refer to it as the “Europe Side” and “Asia Side”.

Where To Stay in Istanbul

The best neighborhoods to stay in Istanbul are Karakoy and Beyoglu on the European side and Kadikoy on the Asia side . Ferries and trams are cheap and easy to take to and forth and run regularly.

19. Visit the Hagia Sofia Mosque

The Hagia Sofia Mosque is one of Turkey’s most popular tourist attractions. Previously a Christian cathedral, it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in the 15th century.

It has flipped from cathedral to mosque to museum over the years, but today, it is one of the largest mosques in the world, and its beautiful architecture is a must-see for any visitor to Istanbul.

It's oddly serene in the Hagia Sofia Mosque!

The Hagia Sofia is open to the public for free , and several guided tours are available for a fee. In addition to its religious significance, the Hagia Sofia is also an important cultural and historical site, and it is definitely worth a visit when you are in Istanbul.

➡️ I went on this small group Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar Tour !

20. Explore Istanbul’s Spice Market

When visiting Istanbul, be sure to add the Spice Market to your list of things to do. This bustling market is located in the Eminönü district and has been a fixture of city life for centuries. Today, it is one of Istanbul’s most popular tourist destinations, offering a window into the city’s rich history and culture.

Exploring Istanbul's spice market is a thing to do while in Turkey.

The Spice Market is home to hundreds of different vendors, selling everything from spices and herbs to tea and coffee. In addition to its wide selection of goods, the market is also a great place to enjoy Turkish hospitality.

Vendors are always happy to chat with visitors, and many offer free samples of their products. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or simply want to experience Istanbul’s vibrant atmosphere, the Spice Market is a must-visit destination.

➡️ I also did this Istanbul Walking Tour , which dived into more history!

21. Shop at the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey. It’s a large covered marketplace with over 60 streets and 4,000 shops, making it one of the largest and oldest markets in the world . Visitors can find everything from Turkish carpets and spices to jewelry and souvenirs.

Get ready to haggle at the Grand Bazaar, it's a thing to do in Turkey!

The best time to visit the bazaar is early in the morning when it’s less crowded and cooler. There are several restaurants and cafes located within the market, so you can take a break when you need to. Just be sure to watch your belongings, as pickpockets are known to operate in crowded areas like this.

Travel Tip: Bargaining is expected, so be prepared to haggle for the best price. Start with 30% off and aim to end at about 15% off! 🙂

22. Take A Trip to Prince’s Island

Turkey is a land of contrasts, with a rich history and culture that has been shaped by both East and West. And nowhere is this more evident than in Istanbul, a city that straddles the Bosphorus strait. Prince’s Island is one of the best places to experience this unique blend of influences, with its mix of Ottoman architecture and European style.

Sunset on Prince's Island is a thing to do in Turkey.

Take a ferry ride from Istanbul to the island, and then start exploring the little islands. Be mindful that there are no cars allowed, so everything is walkable or bikeable – it’s that small! Bring a bathing suit and a cute outfit for at night!

One of my favorite things to do is catch the sunset at a restaurant at the very edge called Kalpazankaya – make sure to order the mezze and a bottle of nice white wine!

Fun Fact: Prince’s Island got its name because this is where Ottoman royalty got banished to when Istanbul was sick of them. And I have to be honest, it’s not a bad place to get banished. A bit small, but a very luxurious prison to say the least!

23. Visit the Underground Basilica Cistern

The Underground Basilica Cistern is one of the most popular hidden gem attractions in Istanbul. Built in the 6th century, the cistern was used to store water for the city’s residents. Today, it is open to the public and offers a cool respite from the heat of the summer sun.

The lighting is super cool in Basilica Cistern, but makes for super blurry pictures.

Visitors can explore the vast space, which is supported by more than 300 columns, and spot the two Medusa heads that are built into the walls. The Underground Basilica Cistern was one of my favorite things to see in Istanbul, as it is oddly peaceful and calm, a direct juxtaposition to the bustling city above.

➡️ Here are Skip the Line Tickets , and you’ll be glad because the lines are long for this one!

24. Learn About The Ottomans at Topkapi Palace

If you’re looking for things to do in Turkey, a visit to Topkapi Palace should be top of the list. The palace was the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for 400 years, and it’s filled with beautiful architecture and interesting artifacts.

Visiting the Topkapi Palace and the Harem inside is a thing to do in Turkey.

You can learn about the history of the palace and the Ottoman Empire, see how the sultans lived, and view a collection of precious gems and jewelry – not to mention, visit the infamous harem rooms.

There’s also a great cafe on site, so you can take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee. Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for things to do in Istanbul, Topkapi Palace is definitely worth a visit.

Travel Tip: Grab tickets at the front entrance of the Castle itself, and I highly recommend getting the Harem buildings included for the extra fee!

25. See the Whirling Dervishes

If you find yourself in Turkey, be sure to check out the whirling dervishes. Also known as the Mevlevi Order, the whirling dervishes are a mystical Sufi group who are best known for their distinctive form of worship, which involves spinning around in circles for extended periods of time.

Snuck a picture of the Whirling Dervish ceremony, something I highly recommend to do in Turkey!

While this may sound like a bizarre spectacle, it is actually a deeply spiritual experience and one that is well worth seeking out. The dervishes believe that by spinning around, they are able to achieve a state of religious ecstasy, and in doing so, they are able to commune with the divine.

➡️ Grab Tickets Here, but set your expectations that this is not a show, but rather you watching a 1-hour religious ceremony!

26. Take a Ferry Ride Down The Bosphorus

One of the best ways to experience Istanbul’s unique location is to take a ferry ride down the Bosphorus. This iconic waterway has served as a dividing line between East and West cultures for centuries, and today it offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past and present.

Ferries across the Bosphorus are cheap and frequent - so don't hesitate to jump on board!

The journey likely will start at the Golden Horn, Istanbul’s natural harbor, where you can take in some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

The next stop is the Dolmabahce Palace, once the home of the Ottoman rulers. From there, the ferry continues down to the Beylerbeyi Palace, a 19th-century summer residence that overlooks the Bosphorous.

As the journey comes to an end, there’s one last treat in store: a sunset cruise past Istanbul’s celebrated skyline. It’s an unforgettable experience and one of the best things to do in Turkey.

➡️ This Sunset Yacht Cruise is a more private way to see the Bosphorous.

27. Enjoy the Views from Galata Tower

Saving the best for last, Galata Tower is one of the most visible attractions in Istanbul. Standing at nearly 200 feet, the tower offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

That's the Galata Tower up at the top, offering stunning views of Turkey!

Once at the top, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Istanbul. On a clear day, you can even see the Bosporus Strait and the Marmara Sea. If you’re looking for things to do in Istanbul, make sure to add a visit to Galata Tower to your list!

Right around the corner from the Tower is a restaurant called SaltBae , famous for the Turkish guy who awkwardly throws salt on a piece of meat – thanks Tik Tok! And if you’re not into that hype, try Sensus Wine Boutique , tucked into a small street as you leave Galata Tower.

Last Few Little Gems!

I’ve saved a few of my favorite things for the end because they are small little gems:

  • Pet a Turkish Street Cat – The Turks love their cats like no other culture I know. You’ll notice little bowls of food and tiny boxes on the streets for the strays – it’s good to be a cat in Turkey!
  • Play a Game of Tabla – This is Backgammon, the national sport (outside of smoking) of Turkey!
  • Eat a Turkish Breakfast – It is so damn good, lunch does not exist… the Turks skip straight to dinner!
  • Learn How to Say Thank You in Turkish – It’s pronounced “ Te-sh-eh-queue-lar ” and it just rolls off the tongue.

Cats in Turkey are the best!

Safety & Travel Tips

Here are a few of the most common questions regarding safety and traveling to Turkey.

Is it safe for Americans to travel to Turkey?

While it’s true that the security situation in Turkey has deteriorated in recent months, it’s important to remember that the vast majority of visitors still have a safe and enjoyable experience. I traveled solo for 2 months across the western half of Turkey, from big cities like Istanbul to small rural villages, and I always felt safe.

Turkey is a safe and very hospitable as a country, but like in all countries where you are traveling, you need to stay vigilent.

With that said, it’s always wise to exercise caution when traveling to any country with a volatile political situation. If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, be sure to stay up-to-date on the latest travel advisories and news. And above all, remember to use your common sense – if your gut tells you something, listen to it!

Do I need travel insurance in Turkey?

Yes, you do. I’m a seasoned traveler with a quick mind and a tough stomach, but even I needed to call for help in my 2 months of travel. And that’s because I gorged myself on some weird chicken one night and contracted food poisoning from hell.

It all turned out OK, and after a week of hydration, rest, and medicine, I was good as new – but thankful for my backup insurance. Here is what I use.

➡️ I recommend Safety Wing Travel Insurance – it’s inexpensive and good!

What is the best time to visit Turkey?

Depending on your interests, the best time to visit Turkey can vary. However, generally speaking, the best time to visit Turkey is between April and October. This is when the weather is most conducive to outdoor activities, and when you’re likely to find the widest selection of things to do.

It is still warm and all the activities and things to do are open for business in October - just less tourists. So a ride on this camel is super quick and easy!

In my opinion, the very best time to visit Turkey is in the fall, between the months of September to November. This is when the tourist season has mostly ended, the crowds clear, the price surges drop, availability to great lodging increases, and it’s just generally less hectic and less hot AF!

Of course, Turkey is a large country, so be sure to research specific destinations in order to determine the best time to visit based on your interests.

Why is Turkey popular to visit?

Turkey is a popular tourist destination for a number of reasons.

  • The country offers a wide range of things to do. Firstly in its rich religious and cultural history, you will have a chance at visiting ancient Mosques and seeing the home of Jesus’s mom, Mother Mary (!!!). It is also rich in food and natural beauty. From the deserts of Cappadocia to hiking the ancient Lycian Way along the Mediterranean coast, there is no room for boredom – just WOW!
  • It’s a relatively easy country to get around , with good infrastructure and a well-developed transport network. I spent one month on a road trip, with a rental car and it was easy enough to drive and navigate west Turkey. I spent my second month in Istanbul using public transportation. The metro, busses, ferries, and taxis were all easy to sort out. Locals and tourists alike depend on this option heavily.
  • Turkey is incredibly welcoming to tourists , with locals that are known for their hospitality. Everywhere I went, I was helped without asking. I came to appreciate the Turkish spirit for a good laugh, family, and care for others – and also cats. Turkish people love cats!
  • It’s a great bang for your buck destination , with plenty of affordable accommodation and activities. Basically, it’s cheaper than most countries in Europe but offers some of the same natural beauty, culture, history, etc.

So whether you’re looking for an action-packed holiday or a more relaxing break, Turkey is definitely worth considering .

What is the capital of Turkey?

I bet you think it’s Istanbul. Well, since there was so much drama in Istanbul with the Ottoman Empire, that designation was moved to a different city when Turkey established itself as a republic in 1923. 🙂

The capital of Turkey is Ankara, and it's on the list of places to visit and things to do on your Turkey road trip.

The capital of Turkey is Ankara, which is sort of located in the middle of nowhere. To be clear, it’s located in the middle of Turkey, and it is everything you would think a capital city would be.

Ankara is known for its historical sites, such as the Roman ruins at Ankara Castle. Other things to see in Ankara include the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Anitkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of the modern Turkish Republic.

Ankara is also quite modern and home to a number of universities, making it a popular destination for students from all over the world.

What is Turkey’s most popular food?

Turkey is a land of plenty, and its cuisine reflects this bounty. One of the most popular things to eat in Turkey is street food . Make your way to any busy street corner and you’ll find vendors grilling up delicious kebabs or serving spiced oysters with rice and lemon. It’s the perfect way to try a little bit of everything.

The most popular food in Turkey is doner kebab , a dish made of lamb or chicken that is cooked on a rotating spit and served with rice, salad, and bread. Other popular Turkish dishes include baklava (a sweet pastry made of filo dough, nuts, and syrup) , kofte (meatballs ) , and all sorts of fish and meat organs (like liver) with roasted garlic.

Turkish pizzas, called “lahmacun,” are another popular snack. They’re similar to flatbreads but topped with a spiced meat mixture and herbs. If you’re looking for something sweet, Turkish delight is a must-try. These bite-sized candies are made from gelatin, nuts, and fruits, and they come in an array of colors and flavors.

Eating your way through Turkey is a thing to do and a whole mindset when you come visit.

Turkey does not shy away from fresh spices and pomegranate, great olive oil, and raki , licorice-tasting alcohol that I never got used to.

And of course, a big thing (almost a religion) is Turkish tea and Turkish coffee . A must!

Conclusion: Things To Do In Turkey

When most people think of Turkey, they immediately think of Istanbul. However, there is so much more beauty to this country than its bustling metropolis. As you can see, it’s more than that, much more.

All in all, if you’re looking for an underrated country to add to your travel bucket list , be sure to put Turkey at the top!

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Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

The 8 most amazing road trips in Turkey for history and adventure

Jennifer Hattam

Jan 27, 2022 • 8 min read

A woman watching balloons in Cappadocia by a car

Road tripping through Cappadocia means dramatic scenes around every turn © Asia-Pacific Images Studio / Getty Images

With nearly 8000km (5000 miles) of coastline and endless expanses of countryside, from rugged mountains to rolling deserts, Turkey is prime road trip territory.

From the Mediterranean to the Black Sea, the country is crisscrossed by well-maintained highways, but you'll want to detour onto smaller roads to reach Turkey's wealth of archeological sites and scenic landscapes and to enjoy the local hospitality.

Turkey has many small regional airports, so most road trips can be driven point-to-point by rental car, connecting back to Istanbul by air when you're ready for your flight home.

Here are eight great road trips in Turkey to whet your appetite for adventure.

Thrace and the North Aegean: best road trip for wining and dining

Start – Istanbul; End – İzmir; Distance – 880km (547 miles)

You could barrel through this drive in a few days to hit its historic highlights: the battlefields of Gallipoli , the ruins of Troy and its impressive museum , the ancient acropolis of Bergama (Pergamum) and the grand classical city of Ephesus . But it’s better to take your time, savoring relaxed seaside towns, Aegean cuisine and local wineries along the way.

Break the long drive out of Istanbul with an overnight stop at the Barbare winery near Tekirdağ, which offers boutique accommodations amidst sprawling vineyards. Continuing west, most of the Gallipoli Peninsula is a national park, with lush forests and secluded beaches to explore, while Çanakkale across the water is a pleasantly vibrant city and the gateway to Troy.

South of Troy, board the car ferry to the idyllic island of Bozcaada, with its old Greek houses, gourmet restaurants, beaches and wineries. Heading on to Bergama, stop in the pretty towns of Foça or Ayvalık , then make for İzmir . As well as being the closest hub to Ephesus, Turkey’s third-largest city is a worthy destination in its own right, with a layered, Greek-influenced culture and cuisine.

Woman admiring the ruins of Ephesus on a sunny winter day, Izmir

The Lycian Coast: best road trip for stunning sea views

Start – Dalaman; End – Antalya; Distance – 337km (209 miles)

Despite the short distances, this Mediterranean journey is meant to be taken slowly, and the winding coastal road between Patara and Antalya will see to it that you don't rush past the sights. If the pretty beaches and coves along the route don’t tempt you into frequent stops and detours, the area’s many fascinating archeological ruins certainly will. 

Leaving Dalaman, take a lunch stop by the harbor in Göcek , then it’s onward to Fethiye , where you can book a day cruise on the sparkling bay, visit the ancient rock tombs towering above the city or hike to the abandoned Greek village of Kayaköy . Moving southeast, the drive to the long sandy beach at Patara is dotted with ancient sites, including hilltop Tlos , the ancient Lycian capital of Xanthos , the temples of Letoon and the isolated mountain splendor of tomb-studded Pinara .

Moving east, laidback Kaş is the kind of place you may never want to leave, with its sublime sea views and hip cafes, restaurants and cocktail bars. The rock tombs of Myra , the dramatic ruins and beach at Olympos, and romantic Phaselis are just a few of the reasons to linger en route to lively Antalya.

Historic Anatolia: best road trip for ancient history

Start – Ankara; End – Konya; Distance – 692km (430 miles)

A visit to the fascinating Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara will set the stage for this journey into the past. After stops at the Turkish capital’s old citadel and the mausoleum of the country’s revered founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, it’s time to head out to Hattuşa , the capital of the ancient Hittite kingdom.

You could spend a few days or a week exploring the Cappadocia region to the south, famous for its fairy chimney rock formations, cave churches and underground cities, and the colorful hot-air balloons that take visitors soaring above it all. The towns of Göreme and Ürgüp both make for good bases, with plenty of hotels and restaurants to choose from.

Before reaching Konya , known for its Seljuk-era relics and Sufi heritage, stop at Çatalhöyük – excavations at this globally significant Neolithic settlement are providing insights into Turkey's earliest civilizations.

Whirling dervish under beams of sunlight in Konya

Southeastern Anatolia: best road trip for bazaars and museums

Start – Gaziantep; End – Gaziantep; Distance – 832km (517 miles)

The historic southeast of Anatolia is tangibly different from other parts of Turkey, with its culture and cuisine influenced by the region’s Kurdish and Arab populations. Start your explorations in famous Gaziantep , known for its kebabs and baklava, and for the beautifully displayed collection of Roman mosaics in the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum .

Rolling east, Şanlıurfa has its own fine archaeology museum and mosaics , as well as a colorful bazaar district and the nearby ruins of Göbeklitepe , one of the world’s most important Neolithic sites. Further east, by the Syrian border, picturesque Mardin has a museum-like old town, an atmospheric bazaar, and ancient Roman ruins and a Syrian Orthodox monastery .

Turning north, fascinating and sometimes troubled Diyarbakır is the most important Kurdish city in Turkey. From here, take the more northern route back to Gaziantep so you can overnight at one of the simple pansiyons (guesthouses) near the summit of Nemrut Dağı , topped by giant statues of ancient gods and heroes.

The Eastern Mountains: best road trip for wild nature

Start – Trabzon; End – Kars; Distance – 640km (398 miles)

This rugged drive requires good mountain-driving skills and shouldn’t be attempted in winter, but it rewards the adventurous traveler with dramatic landscapes, isolated villages and some truly unique sights. Starting from the vibrant coastal city of Trabzon , head into the mountains to reach the 4th-century Sumela Monastery , a reminder of the region’s rich Greek Orthodox heritage.

Old Armenian churches can be found around Gümüşhane, and farther on in Bayburt is the remote, one-of-a-kind Baksi Museum , devoted to contemporary and traditional arts. From underrated Erzurum , you can continue by car to Kars , a former Russian outpost with distinctive architecture. The nearby ruins of Ani , an ancient capital of Armenia before modern borders were drawn, have one of the most picturesque settings in Turkey.

As an interesting alternative to driving this last leg, return your hire car in Erzurum and buy a train ticket on the famous Doğu Ekspresi (Eastern Express) train to Kars, one of Turkey's most rewarding rail journeys. 

Women sunbathing on a seabed on the Turkish coast

Three Peninsulas: best road trip for leisurely seaside meandering

Start – Bodrum; End – Dalaman; Distance – 655km (407 miles)

The winding roads, scenic views and relaxed vibe of the three peninsulas that jut out from the Turkish coast where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean Sea – Bodrum, Datça, and Bozburun – encourage leisurely dawdling. The Bodrum peninsula is the most popular destination, with resort towns ranging from the glamorous to the bohemian.

Datça and Bozburun (near Marmaris ) are quieter, but both are drawing ever-larger numbers of city-weary Istanbulites. You may find that you fall in love with one peninsula and want to spend all of your time exploring its many coves and villages instead of making the full tour of all three. Riverfront Dalyan , which boasts one of the best beaches in Turkey, makes for a pleasant stopover before heading to the airport in Dalaman.

Phrygia and the Lake District: best road trip for off-the-beaten-path sights

Start – Eskişehir; End – Antalya; Distance – 556km (345 miles)

You could start this drive from Istanbul, but it’s more pleasant to take the fast train to Eskişehir , a pleasantly green riverfront city with many interesting things to do – be sure to visit the city's notable modern art museum before you hit the road. 

The ancient Phrygian civilization spread southwest from here through rock-carved valleys that you can explore today via the Phrygian Way trekking route. Continue through Kütahya, known for its Ottoman ceramics, to reach the stark hilltop castle for which the town of Afyonkarahisar is named.

South of the town of Afyon is Turkey’s forested Lake District , where you can eat fish by the water in Eğirdir or take a hike in the green surroundings of Lake Kovada National Park . After visiting the spectacular ruins of ancient Sagalassos , see some of the artifacts found at the site in the museum in Burdur, then cap off your trip with some beach time in Antalya.

Western Black Sea: best road trip for quaint Ottoman villages

Start – Istanbul; End – Samsun; Distance – 1516km (942 miles)

This long journey will give you a taste of the rugged western Black Sea coastline as well as the green, rural areas inland. Start by stretching your legs with a walk around Lake Sapanca and then tour through the charming small villages of Taraklı, Göynük and Mudurnu. Each has historic Ottoman homes in various states of repair, and Mudurnu has the best options for an overnight stay.

Lake Abant and the Yenice Forest are two beautiful natural spots en route to the pretty coastal resort of Amasra and its historic citadel . The lovingly restored Ottoman mansions of Safranbolu are another top attraction in this region, and the mighty rock fortress of Kastamonu is worth a stop on the way to the port town of Sinop. From here, dip back inland to mosque-studded Amasya and Tokat before ending your trip in coastal Samsun.

You may also like: Turkey is a country for all seasons – here are the best times to visit 12 unmissable things to do in Turkey The best places to visit in Turkey: from ancient sites to hot-air-balloon heights

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PlanetWare.com

20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Turkey

Written by Jess Lee Updated May 11, 2023

Author Jess Lee lives in Turkey and has been writing about traveling in Turkey for over a decade. She has authored several travel guidebooks to the country .

Packed to the brim with ancient monuments left over from a parade of empires, and endowed with showcase scenery that never fails to impress, Turkey is a dazzling destination that straddles Asia and Europe.

Ruins in Ephesus, Turkey

Its vibrant culture, famous food, and vast history wow all who venture here, while its glorious landscapes, from the sun-soaked Mediterranean to the mighty mountains and arid steppe, are tourist attractions in themselves.

Whether you want to lap up the Byzantine and Ottoman glories of Istanbul on a city break, laze on the beach, delve into history wandering through ruins such as Ephesus, or see some of the world's most surreal panoramas in Pamukkale and Cappadocia, this country offers visitors a wide range of things to do.

For ideas on the best places to visit read our list of the top tourist attractions in Turkey.

1. Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) Mosque

3. cappadocia, 4. topkapı palace, 5. pamukkale, 7. cruising the mediterranean, 8. mount nemrut, 9. ölüdeniz, 10. aspendos, 12. pergamum, 13. the blue mosque, 16. safranbolu, 17. the bosphorus, 18. gaziantep zeugma mosaic museum, 19. göbeklitepe, 20. sumela monastery, best time to visit turkey.

Aya Sofya

Highlight: Take in the majestic interior of one of Istanbul's most iconic buildings

Renowned as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, the spellbinding Byzantine glory of the Hagia Sophia Mosque (Aya Sofya) is not only one of the top things to do in Istanbul, but also in Turkey.

Built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian in 537 CE, it is renowned as the Byzantine Empire's greatest architectural achievement and has remained the world's largest church for 1,000 years.

The staggering bulk of its exterior is rimmed by the delicate minarets added after the Ottoman conquest, while the sumptuous and cavernous frescoed interior is a grand reminder of old Constantinople's might and power.

This famed monument is a must-do for every tourist visiting the country.

  • Read More: Exploring Hagia Sophia Mosque: A Visitor's Guide

Ephesus

Highlights: Crane your neck at the Library of Celsus, hike up the cavea of the Great Theater, and stroll amid the ruins of this ancient city

Not to be missed, the mighty ruin of Ephesus is a city of colossal monuments and marble-columned roads.

One of the most complete, still-standing famed cities of antiquity in the Mediterranean region, this is the place to experience what life must have been like during the golden age of the Roman Empire.

The city's history dates back to the 10th century BCE, but the major monuments you see today all date from its Roman era when it was a thriving commercial center.

In particular, the Library of Celsus, the complex of frescoed terraced houses, and the Great Theater all point to the wealth and importance of Ephesus during the Roman period.

A sightseeing trip here will take at least half a day to cover the major highlights and longer, if you really want to explore, so make sure you plan your visit so you don't feel rushed.

  • Read More: Visiting Ephesus: Attractions, Tips & Tours

Cappadocia

Highlights: Take in panoramic views from a hot-air balloon, hike within valleys of volcanic rock, and marvel at cave-chapel Byzantine art

The surreal, swooping rock valleys of Cappadocia are every photographer's dream.

Cliff ridges and hill crests are home to rippling panoramas of wave-like rock or wacky-shaped pinnacles that have been formed by millennia of wind and water action.

And if you don't feel like hiking for the views, this is one of the world's top destinations to take a hot-air balloon ride .

Nestled in this unique lunar-like landscape are the frescoed rock-cut churches and cave-cut architecture of the Byzantine Era, when this area was home to monastic Christian communities.

In particular, the multiple cave-churches of Göreme Open-Air Museum and Ihlara Valley are home to some of the best examples of surviving mid-Byzantine-era religious art in the world.

Cappadocia's villages, half hewn into the hillsides, where travelers base themselves to explore the surrounding countryside, are also an attraction in themselves, with their boutique hotels that allow you to bed down in a cave with full contemporary comforts.

  • Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cappadocia
  • Top-Rated Things to Do in Turkey

Topkapi Palace

Highlights: Soak up the Ottoman finery amid the salons of the sultans

Sumptuous beyond belief, Istanbul's Topkapı Palace takes you into the fantastical, opulent world of the Sultans.

It was from here, during the 15th and 16th centuries, that the sultans of the Ottoman era carved out an empire that would extend up into Europe and down through the Middle East and into Africa.

The interiors, with their decadently exuberant tiling and lavish jeweled decor, are an unforgettable peek into the Ottoman's power base.

In particular, don't miss the Imperial Council building, where the empire's business was conducted by the Grand Vizier; the arms collection displayed in the Imperial Treasury; the world-class collection of miniature paintings; and the dazzling Harem rooms, which were designed by the famed Ottoman architect Sinan.

The surrounding public gardens were once the sole domain of the Royal Court but are now open to the public and provide a tranquil, green respite from the city streets.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Istanbul

Pamukkale

Highlights : Hike up the famed white terraces, swim in the antique pool, then take in the views from the top tier of the theater's cavea

One of Turkey's most famous natural wonders, the pure white travertine terraces of Pamukkale ("Cotton Castle" in English) cascade down the slope looking like an out-of-place snowfield amid the green landscape.

Although the travertines are themselves a highlight of a Turkey trip, the vast and rambling ruins of Greco-Roman Hierapolis, an ancient spa town, lie scattered across the summit of this calcite hill.

After exploring the ancient theater, with its views across the countryside, and the remnants of the city's agora, gymnasium, necropolis, and grand gates, you can swim in the mineral-rich waters which made this ancient spa town famous, in the antique pool.

Afterward, walk down the travertine hill, wading through the pools of water in the upper terraces, to the small modern village of Pamukkale below.

For the best photographs, come at dusk when the travertines glow as the sun sinks below the horizon.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Pamukkale

Picturesque Antalya

Highlights: Stroll the twisty lanes of the old town, sloth on the beach, or launch yourself out on history-filled trips amid the hilltop ruins of the hinterland

This bustling Mediterranean hub has something for everyone.

The two main beaches outside of town are sun-sloth heaven in summer and attract holidaymakers from across Europe. While the old town area, snug right in the center of town, with its cobblestone alleyways rimmed by creaky Ottoman-era mansions, is a wonderful place to explore.

The Antalya Museum is renowned as one of the country's best, with an astonishing collection of Hellenistic and Roman marble statuary, and there are bags of attractions outside of town for travelers who want to use Antalya as a base.

In particular, Antalya is an easy base for day trips to some of Turkey's most famous Greco-Roman ruins, including Aspendos and Perge, which are just outside the city, and the town of Side, with its glut of ruins.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Antalya

Yachts moored near Fethiye

Highlight: Experience Turkey's dramatic coastline from the sea on a scenic slow-travel adventure

Turkey's Mediterranean coastline has ruins galore and many things to do, but for many people, it's all about soaking up the sun while enjoying the gorgeous coastal views.

Cruising on a yacht is the number one activity for visitors to Bodrum and Fethiye for good reason. The steep forest-clad slopes, hidden coves sporting tiny white-sand beaches, and hundreds of scattered islands are the perfect place for exploring by sea. Even diehard landlubbers will be impressed.

One of the most famous trips is known as the Blue Cruise and travels from Fethiye south down the coast until disembarking near Olympos , home to the famous natural phenomenon of the Chimaera.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bodrum

Mount Nemrut

Highlight: Hike up to the summit to see the sun rise over the mountaintop ruins

The top sightseeing drawcard for eastern Turkey, Mount Nemrut's summit funerary mound is scattered with the broken remnants of once mammoth statues, which guarded it.

This weird and lonely place has to be one of Turkey's most peculiar archaeological sites. The giant stone heads of long-forgotten gods stare out from the summit, casting an eerie atmosphere over the barren mountaintop.

The summit's building works are the work of Antiochus I, ruler of the Commagene Kingdom, which lay here in the buffer region between the Roman and Parthian empires.

Antiochus I dedicated this grand funerary mound to himself as a showcase of his importance, raising a 50-meter-high artificial peak on Mount Nemrut's summit and then decorating it with statues of himself and various gods.

The most popular time to visit is at sunrise, so you can watch the statues as they loom out of the dark.

  • Read More: Exploring Mount Nemrut: A Visitor's Guide

Paragliding over Oludeniz

Highlights: Turkey's tandem paragliding hub, resort living, and lazy beach life

Impossibly turquoise-blue water. Check. Lush green forest tumbling down a cliff to a white-sand beach. Check. The sheltered inlet of Ölüdeniz, just a short journey from Fethiye, is Turkey's most famous beach, and with scenery that might as well have fallen off a perfect postcard, it's easy to see why its popularity hasn't waned.

If the beach gets too crowded, it's time to take to the skies and experience the stunning aerial views on a tandem paragliding dive off the summit of mighty Babadağ (Mount Baba), which rises up behind the shore.

Oh, did we mention that Ölüdeniz is one of the world's top paragliding destinations? Check.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Fethiye

Roman Theater of Aspendos

Highlight: Admire this monumental relic of Roman rule

Just south of the resort city of Antalya, the jaw-dropping mammoth bulk of the Roman Theater of Aspendos celebrates the pomp and ceremony of Marcus Aurelius' rule.

Considered the finest surviving example of a classical age theater still standing in the world, the highly restored, 15,000-seat theater is one of antiquity's star attractions.

Although the theater is the main reason for a visit here (and for most visitors on a half-day trip from nearby Antalya or Side, the theater is all they see) the Aspendos site offers plenty more ruins to explore.

There are remnants of an aqueduct, agora, stadium, and a Byzantine-era basilica, all scattered over the vast hillside area here surrounding the theater.

Read More: Aspendos: A Visitor's Guide

Patara Beach

Highlights: Hike amid the Lycian ruins then relax on Turkey's longest beach

With such a long Mediterranean coastline, there's a beach for every type of sun worshipper in Turkey, but Patara is among its most famous swathes of sand.

Trailing for 18 kilometers along the shoreline, the beach offers plenty of space, so even in the height of summer, you can still find a quiet spot far away from the crowds.

Adding to the experience, just behind the sand, are the vast ruins of Ancient Patara , which include a colonnaded street, restored bouleuterion (the parliament of the city), and a theater that sat 5,000 people.

Once you've had your fill of sun, sand, and swimming, wander behind the sand dunes and explore the crumbling remnants of this once-prosperous Lycian city.

Patara is easily reached from both Kas and Fethiye.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Fethiye

Pergamum

Highlights: Panoramic vistas across the ruins and surrounding hills from the Acropolis and theater

Turkey has an abundance of Greco-Roman ruins, but none can be so romantically placed as ancient Pergamum in modern-day Bergama.

Once home to one of the ancient world's most important libraries (which rivaled Alexandria's library in prominence) and home to the famed medical school run by Galen, Pergamum's remaining temple remnants now preside dramatically across a hilltop.

It's an incredibly atmospheric place to explore. The Acropolis area with its theater cut into the hillside holds the most remains and offers sweeping panoramic views across the countryside.

Below, the Asklepion area is home to the ruins of the city's renowned medical center.

This is a great place to visit if you want to get a real feel for life in the Classical era.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Pergamum and the North Aegean

Pergamon Map - Tourist Attractions

Highlight: An opulent interior with the Ottoman era's delicately detailed blue-and-white tiles

This famous mosque (officially called the Sultanahmet Mosque), facing the Hagia Sophia Mosque across Sultanahmet Park in Istanbul, is one of Turkey's most visited monuments.

Built by Sultan Ahmed I, the mosque was designed to mimic the Hagia Sophia by the architect Sedefkar Mehmet Ağa, a disciple of the Ottoman era's most renowned architect, Sinan.

With six slender minarets and a sprawling courtyard complex, everything about the Blue Mosque is on a grand scale but it's best known for its prayer hall interior covered in tens of thousands of blue Iznik tiles (for which the mosque gained its moniker), lit by shards of light from 260 windows.

Non-worshipping visitors are welcome to visit outside of prayer times. Everyone must have knees and shoulders covered, and females must wear a headscarf.

Aerial view of Troy

Highlight: Strolling amid the ruins of one of the Classical world's most famous mythical cities

One of Turkey's most well-known ancient ruins, this site is thought by many to be the Troy of Homer's Iliad .

Whether it is, or not, the Troy of the Trojan War myths, the multi-layered, rambling ruins here expose a vast history of occupation, abandonment, and reoccupation that stretches right back to the early Bronze Age.

The ruins include well-preserved city walls and fortifications, the remnants of a palace, megarons (Mycenean hall complexes) and houses, along with later Roman-era sanctuary and Odeon monuments.

Just down the road from the Troy site is the new Troy Museum , one of Turkey's best museums.

The vast and thoughtfully collated collection inside tells the tale of Troy, from its earliest occupation right through to the modern era, including the mythology that surrounds the site; the controversial and damaging excavations of early archaeological work here; and the story of the missing cache of gold, silver, and copper artifacts (known as Prium's Treasure) currently held at Moscow's Pushkin Museum, which were unearthed at the site and illegally smuggled out of Turkey by Heinrich Schliemann.

Read More: Visiting Troy from Istanbul

Ani

Highlight: Rambling this vast site of shattered churches set high on the steppe

The ruins of the powerful Silk Road city of Ani sit abandoned on the plains rubbing up against Turkey's modern border with Armenia.

Once capital of the Armenian Kingdom, Ani's golden age came to an end in the 14th century after Mongol raids, earthquake destruction, and trade route tussling all played their part in the city's decline.

The beautiful red-brick buildings still crumbling away amid the steppe grass have a mesmerizing effect on all who visit.

Don't miss the Church of the Redeemer and the Church of Saint Gregory, with their elaborate stone masonry and fresco remnants still visible; the bulky Ani Cathedral building; and the Manuçehr Mosque, built by the Seljuk Turks when they captured the city in the 11th century and thought to be the first mosque built in what would become Turkey.

Ani - Ruined Site of the Old Armenian City Map - Tourist Attractions

Highlight: Idly wandering cobblestone streets amid the old town of wood-beamed mansions

Turkey's best-preserved Ottoman town is a fabulously photogenic place of skinny winding alleys crammed with finely restored wooden mansions which were once the home of wealthy merchants and now have been transformed into boutique hotels and restaurants.

There's little to actually do in town. Instead, this is a place to simply stroll the streets and admire the old-world atmosphere.

It's also known for its traditional sweets and crafts and there are plenty of cute shops where you can pick up a unique souvenir.

If you're road-tripping inland from Istanbul, this is a fantastic place to stop-off for the night and experience the historic ambience.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Safranbolu

Bosphorus view

Highlight: Take a scenic sightseeing trip on Istanbul's famed continent-dividing strait

One of the world's great waterways, the Bosphorus Strait separates Europe from Asia and connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara (and hence, out to the Mediterranean).

Cruising along the Bosphorus, whether by hopping local ferries, on a tourist ferry cruise, or a private boat, is one of the great tourist attractions of an Istanbul stay. This is the most relaxing sightseeing opportunity in Istanbul.

Onboard, it's all about soaking up the scenery from the water, with the shorefront lined with Ottoman palaces; villas; and wooden mansions out to Rumeli Fortress, built by Mehmet the Conqueror; and (farther north along the strait), the Byzantine-era ramparts of Anadolu Fortress.

Gypsy Girl Mosaic inside Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum

Highlight: A dazzling collection of Greco-Roman mosaic artistry

Due to the ongoing aid response in the aftermath of Turkey's February 2023 earthquake, the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum has been temporarily closed. For information on reopening, check the official museum website .

The city of Gaziantep is one of southeastern Turkey's great highlights for a few days of guzzling Gaziantep's renowned baklava and strolling the alleys of its old city district, but its most famous attraction is the Gaziantep Zeugma Mosaic Museum.

The museum contains both one of the largest and most important mosaic collections in the world.

Nearly all the Hellenistic and Roman-era floor mosaics displayed here are originally from the Greco-Roman ruins of the town of Zeugma, which is now half-submerged due to the construction of the Bericik Dam. The mosaics, cleverly curated and displayed so that they can be viewed from their best angles, provide visitors with a sense of the artistry of the Greco-Roman era.

Despite the many huge mosaics here, the most famous mosaic in the collection, known as the Gypsy Girl , is one of the smallest pieces. It is displayed dramatically in its own darkened room, so that the intricate artistry of the piece can be better appreciated.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Gaziantep

Göbeklitepe

Highlight: Soaking up the atmosphere of standing amid the world's earliest religious monument

One of Turkey's most important ancient ruins, the hilltop site of Göbeklitepe , near Şanlıurfa, has generated hundreds of headlines worldwide, been anointed with UNESCO World Heritage status, (and provided the inspiration for the Netflix series The Gift ) since it was opened to the public.

This small site of towering T-shaped pillars, inscribed with animal figures and anthropomorphic details, dates from the pre-pottery Neolithic era and is thought by archaeologists to be the world's earliest religious sanctuary.

Although it may not have the wow-factor of Turkey's many, much later Bronze Age and Greco-Roman ancient sites, Göbeklitepe's importance in our understanding of early human history has made it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey's southeast.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Şanlıurfa

Sumela Monastery

Highlight: Exploring this stunning Byzantine religious center that clings to the cliff-side

With its stunning, lonely setting, built into a cliff face, Sumela Monastery (Monastery of the Virgin Mary) is the star attraction for visitors along the Black Sea Coast.

Wandering around this abandoned religious complex, with its church interiors crammed with dazzling and vibrant frescoes, is a must for anyone who makes the long journey to Turkey's northeast region.

The monastery first opened during the Byzantine era and only ceased operation as a working religious center in 1923, when the monks were forced to leave as part of the Greek-Turkish Population Exchange.

Today, wandering its empty cells, it's easy to imagine the isolated lives of the monks who once lived here.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on the Black Sea Coast

Overall, depending on what you plan to do, Turkey can be visited year-round, but for the most dependable weather, the best times to visit are the months of May, June, July, August, September, and October.

May, June, September, and October are the prime time for Turkey travels, with plenty of blue skies and sunshine and softer light for photography, but fewer crowds. Just remember to pack a warmer layer for after dark and a jacket in case of rain.

Spring wildflowers bloom across the countryside in May, while the displays of colorful fall foliage during October make these two months the best for keen photographers.

July and August are the most popular months to visit, with temperatures regularly peaking over 30 degrees Celsius and little chance of rain disrupting your plans. If you're here specifically for the beach and activities on the water, this is peak season.

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Turkey Travel Guide: Plan Your Perfect Trip

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Ultimate TURKEY Travel Guide

Turkey is a country located in the Middle East . Ankara is the capital and it is a country known for its culture, architecture, and diversity. Our Turkey travel guide is here to help you see the best it offers.

The main draw to the country is the outstanding combination of Mediterranean beaches and rich history that is spread across the land.

It is also hard to resist its lively cities, such as Istanbul and Antalya. Both of which offer and electric vibe and irresistible food scene.

A visit to Turkey will ignite your senses and put you straight into adventure mode. With so many influences coming from  Europe  and the Middle East, it is no wonder people get absorbed in their travels here and extend their stays.

If you’re planning to travel to Turkey, get comfortable and tuck into our many articles. If it’s advice you’re looking for, you’ve come to the right place.

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Turkey travel: quick tips, don’t visit turkey without:.

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Where to stay in turkey.

Below you will find some of the places we have stayed during our travels in Turkey. These are individual properties that we enjoyed and would recommend to other travelers.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN TURKEY

Anyone looking to travel to Turkey will likely fly into Istanbul and connect to the other airports across the country. From these major cities, it is possible to use public transportation to see the city or take buses further afield.

Many people choose to engage in group tours or day tours to get around and see things in Turkey. It is also possible to rent a car and plan a road trip that takes you further afield and out of the city.

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Turkey travel: booking resources, turkey travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Turkey and start planning your dream trip.

Ultimate 10 Day Turkey Itinerary (Plus 7 day & 2 Week Options!)

How to plan a cappadocia hot air balloon ride in turkey, best time to visit turkey: month by month breakdown, ephesus, turkey: best sites to visit in the ancient city, dalyan, turkey: essential guide & best things to do, 5 reasons to add cirali, turkey to your itinerary, 30 best places to visit in turkey (plus things to do), what to wear in turkey: ultimate turkey packing list, 9 reasons to visit selcuk turkey (including ephesus), 11 unmissable things to do in istanbul, foolproof guide to pamukkale turkey, 7 unmissable things to do in cappadocia, turkey (plus planning tips).

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  • 9 Handy Turkey Travel Tips To Make Your Vacation Memorable And Hassle-free

26 Oct 2021

Boasting an outstanding combination of magnificent mountain ranges, alluring plains, shimmering beaches, and expansive deserts, Turkey is a magical destination which attracts tourists from all over the world. In addition to natural beauty, Turkey incorporates world famous marvels like Hagia Sophia Museum and Blue Mosque and has beautiful towns like Istanbul and Antalya that leave people in awe. Pulsating with elegance and beauty, this paradise will have you hooked with balloon packed skies, paragliding on turquoise coasts, tasty kebabs, lovely beaches, salt pools, and wonderful historical sites. But before you plan your vacation, take a look at these few useful Turkey travel tips to make sure your journey is as comfortable and hassle-free as it can be.

10 Best Turkey Travel Tips

Make sure you follow these handy tips for visiting Turkey so that you can enjoy a comfortable vacation without landing into an unpleasant situation.

1. Research Well Before You Make Your Itinerary

Planning

Before heading to Turkey, make sure you make a checklist of all the places to visit. Proper research will help you to list the most popular and noteworthy places in Turkey. To travel around Turkey without proper knowledge is like driving around without GPS. This is one of the best Turkey travel tips to start your journey to your dream destination.

Must Read: 82 Best Places To Visit In Turkey That Must Be On Your Itinerary

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2. Learn Few Common Turkish Words

Book of Common Words

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In the exteriors of the cities, not many people are familiar with the English language. Learning a little Turkish language is like among the best tips for traveling to Turkey for the first time and will will get you a long way. In fact, Turkish language is not that difficult, as the letters are similar to Roman alphabet and words are spelled as per the pronunciation.

If you learn a few phrases in Turkish then you can have a decent conversation with the locals. Even at the bookstores, you are likely to find books for Turkish-to-English translation. This is one of the essential Turkey travel advice that we can give you. Below are some common Turkish phrases that will help you on your tour.

Good morning – Günaydın No – Hayir Yes – Evet Thank you – Tesekkür ederim Goodbye – Hoşçakal! (HOSH-CHA-KAL)

Suggested Read: This Is How You Can Impress Your Soulmate On Valentine’s Day In Turkey!

3. Pick An Appropriate Accommodation

Beautiful Accommodation

From budgeted hotels to luxurious apartments, everything is available in Turkey. You can choose a suitable accommodation as per your convenience and budget. Choose a place that doesn’t burn a hole in your wallet. Travelling within Turkey is as expensive as a Euro trip, unless you plan a proper budget. One of the most important tips for traveling in Turkey for the first time is that you opt for apartments to stay like a local. There are quaint houses available for a comfortable stay offering good value for money.

Suggested Read: Turkey In September: The Ultimate Guide For Exploring The Land Of The Legends!

4. Dress Decently

Beautifully Dressed Up

Being most liberal of West Asian countries, the women in Turkey dress in an elegant and fashionable manner. As Turkey gives you the freedom of dressing as per you desire, you can see both women dressed in Burqas as well as western attires. However, you must make sure to dress decently and not enrage the social customs regarding clothing.

If you happen to visit a conservative area or a mosque, then you need to cover your head. Hence, it highly recommended keeping a scarf or shawl in your bag at all times. Other than this, you’ll find most travel guides asking you to wear hats and sunscreen at all times to avoid getting tanned, which are also some of the best tips for visiting Turkey.

Suggested Read: Celebrate Christmas In Turkey And Make It Merry With These Fantastic Experiences

5. Respect The Culture

Traditional Dance

Turkey is a secular state where people are open minded and have the freedom to practice Islam the way they wish to. You are bound to have a terrific experience during your tour as people here are quite welcoming, especially to new people from different parts of the world. However, you need to do your bit by respecting the Turkish culture, traditions, customs, and religious practices at all times. Make sure of how you conduct yourself in public areas and how you treat the locals, which is one of the foremost Turkey travel tips to keep in mind.

Also, be careful when you are debating on matters regarding the politics with the locals, as one wrong word may land you in trouble. People here have great respect for the Founding Father of the Turkish Republic, so one is not allowed to speak ill or crack jokes on any matter concerning him, either intentionally or unintentionally. Keeping this essential Turkey travel advice may save you from a lot of embarrassment on your trip to Turkey.

Suggested Read: Turkey In October: Witness The Land Of Aladdin At Its Best!

6. Carry An International Adapter

carry a charger adapter in the country you're visiting

Imagine yourself stuck in the city with your mobile phone alerting low battery. This is one of the worst things that can happen to any tourist. Make sure you carry the international charger adaptor so that you can plug it anywhere in your hotel and charge your mobile phones before leaving. While many safety tips for Turkey tour will suggest you to buy one from Turkey itself, we’d suggest you carry one from your home country.

Suggested Read: 6 Iconic Bridges In Turkey That Are A Paragon Of Beauty & Magnificence!

7. Get Vaccinated Before Travelling

Vaccination Before Travelling

One of the most common one safety tips for Turkey tour include vaccination and proper medication. Before initiating your tour, it is highly recommended to vaccinate yourself as a precautionary step. Consult your family doctor to be more precise and take vaccinations under his/her guidance. Most general vaccinations include tetanus, diphtheria, hepatitis A, polio, typhoid and diphtheria. Also, make sure you’re carrying the proper medications on your tour with their prescriptions.

Suggested Read: 5 Historical Caves In Turkey Which Will Give You Some Serious Adventure Goals!

8. Use Public Transport

Public Transport

Hassle-free commuting is possible as Istanbul is well connected by train, bus, and metro to other cities. If there is no public transport during midnight, then cabs are available. Ulusoy and Safran are the best bus services and are equipped with Wi-Fi facility. During long journeys, passengers are treated to snacks and beverages onboard. You can book these buses online. When traveling by cabs, always make sure to check the logo at the taxi stand so that you do not fall in the trap of money scamming taxi drivers. This is one of the important Turkey travel tips to be considered when commuting within Turkey.

Suggested Read: 7 Therapeutic Hot Springs In Turkey Everyone Who Searches For Tranquility

9. Carry Cash

Cash

Of all the Turkey travel tips, this is the most important and essential suggestion. You should have cash with you all the time as you cannot rely on cards. One of the prime reasons for carrying cash is that ATM centers are not available in rural towns. So to avoid any complications, it is highly advised to have local currency of Turkey. Although credit cards are accepted, most service providers and vendors prefer paper money over cards. In addition, Turkish ATM machines are unpredictable and may reject your card without any valid reason.

Further Read: Turkey In November: Take A Quick Rundown At This Guide For An Enthralling Vacation!

Planning to take a trip to Turkey anytime soon? Don’t forget to consider these Turkey travel tips before your book a vacation. And if you know of anymore travel tips, hacks, and suggestions for visiting Turkey the right way, let us know in the comments below.

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Travel Tips

How should a woman tourist dress in Turkey?

You can wear shorts, crop tops, short skirts, and summer dresses in all places except mosques and other religious places. The Turks are known for wearing smart casuals. Men should also avoid wearing shorts in such places. They can wear long trousers and short-sleeved shirts.

Is it safe to travel around in Turkey?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to travel around in Turkey. Istanbul and Ankara are considered to be the most secure cities of Turkey.

Is it safe to walk in Istanbul at night?

Yes, it is completely safe to stroll around the streets of Istanbul at night. However, avoid narrow lanes and stay on well lit lanes as much as possible.

Is there Uber in Istanbul?

Uber is the most downloaded app in Turkey and it widely operates in Istanbul and towns of Cesme and Bodrum. To locate the customers, drivers of turquoise and yellow cabs also use Uber app.

What should I avoid in Istanbul?

Revealing clothes or short dresses should be completely avoided in the holy places of Istanbul. Eating close to touristic places, shopping without bargaining, wearing shoes in places of worship and ill-talking about the culture is not encouraged. Don’t book logo-less cabs to avoid getting scammed.

What do you wear in Turkey in the winter?

If you are travelling to Turkey in winter, you must carry the following clothes: 1. Light waterproof rain jacket 2. Winter coat or outdoor jacket 3. Long sleeved shirts 4. Skirts paired with thick stockings 5. Leggings or trousers 6. Ankle boots

Is Turkey safe for female Travelers?

Unlike many other countries, Turkey is safe for females. All the solo female travelers out there need not be afraid to explore this place.

Is tap water drinkable in Turkey?

Yes, tap water is completely safe to drink here. But in many places the water does not taste good, especially in the European part of Istanbul, so one is recommended to drink bottled water.

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Bodrum, Turkey

The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide to Turkey

First-time visitor’s guide: essential tips for a memorable turkey experience.

Turkey is a country that bridges the East and the West, a land where history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to make your trip to Turkey unforgettable, including the best time to visit, top destinations, cultural experiences, and practical tips. One Nation Travel provides budget-friendly Turkey travel packages to the country’s top destinations. Browse and book your dream experience securely online.

Geography of Turkey

Turkey travel map

Turkey spans two continents, Europe and Asia, and is bordered by eight countries. Its diverse landscape includes the stunning Mediterranean coastline, the rugged mountains of the East, and the vast central Anatolian plateau. This rich geography offers travelers a wide range of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins to relaxing on pristine beaches.

Best Time to Visit Turkey

Pamukkale Tours

Turkey is a year-round destination, but the ideal time to visit depends on your interests and preferences.

Spring (April-May): The weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring archaeological sites.

Summer (June-August): The coastal regions are bustling with tourists seeking sun, sand, and sea. This is also the peak season for cultural events and festivals.

Autumn (September-October): The temperatures cool down, making it a great time to visit historical sites and enjoy the autumn foliage.

Winter (November-March): Ski resorts in the mountains come alive, and the offseason means fewer tourists at popular attractions.

Top Destinations in Turkey

Cappadocia with a 2-Day Tour from Istanbul

  • Istanbul : This vibrant city is a melting pot of cultures and history, boasting iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar.
  • Cappadocia : Known for its unique fairy chimneys, underground cities, and hot air balloon rides, Cappadocia is a must-see destination.
  • Ephesus : Explore the well-preserved ruins of this ancient Roman city, including the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
  • Pamukkale : Visit the famous travertine terraces and bathe in the mineral-rich hot springs that have attracted visitors for millennia.
  • Antalya : This coastal city offers a mix of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and modern amenities, making it a perfect destination for all types of travelers.

Turkish Cuisine

Turkish Food

Turkish cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean, Central Asian, and Middle Eastern flavors. Don’t miss trying dishes like kebabs, pide, baklava, and the refreshing çay (tea). Street food is also a must-try, with classics like simit, döner, and roasted chestnuts readily available.

Cultural Experiences in Turkey

Turkish Baths

To truly immerse yourself in Turkish culture, consider attending a whirling dervish ceremony, visiting a traditional Turkish bath (Hamam), or learning about the ancient art of marbling (ebru). Additionally, Turkey is home to numerous festivals celebrating art, music, and food, providing ample opportunities for cultural exploration.

Transportation in Turkey

Turkey Bus Travel

Turkey’s transportation network is extensive and affordable. Major cities like Istanbul, Ankara , and Izmir have efficient public transit systems, including buses, trams, and metros. For long-distance travel, buses are a popular choice, while domestic flights and high-speed trains are also available. When exploring more remote areas, consider renting a car for flexibility and convenience.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Istiklal Avenue, Taksim, Istanbul

While Turkey is generally safe for tourists, it’s important to take precautions and stay informed about potential risks. Keep your belongings secure, avoid displaying valuables, and be wary of scams targeting tourists. Make sure to follow local news and government advisories to stay updated on any travel restrictions or safety concerns.

Accommodation Options in Turkey

Cave hotel in Cappadocia

Turkey offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts. For a unique experience, consider staying in a cave hotel in Cappadocia or a traditional Ottoman-style mansion in Istanbul.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Istanbul Airport

Most tourists can enter Turkey with a valid passport and an e-visa, which can be obtained online prior to arrival. However, visa requirements may vary depending on your nationality, so it’s essential to check with the nearest Turkish consulate or embassy for the most up-to-date information.

Turkish Language Basics

While many people in Turkey’s tourist areas speak English, learning a few basic Turkish phrases will enhance your travel experience and help you connect with locals. Some essential phrases include:

  • Merhaba (Hello)
  • Teşekkür ederim (Thank you)
  • Lütfen (Please)
  • Affedersiniz (Excuse me)
  • Evet (Yes) / Hayır (No)

Turkish Customs and Etiquette

To make your trip more enjoyable and respectful of local customs, keep these etiquette tips in mind:

  • Remove your shoes when entering a mosque or someone’s home.
  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Avoid public displays of affection.
  • Be mindful of the call to prayer, as it’s a time for Muslims to focus on their spiritual practice.

Packing Tips for Turkey

When packing for your trip to Turkey, consider the following:

  • Pack clothing suitable for the season and activities you have planned.
  • Bring a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a hat for beach days.
  • Pack a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders when visiting mosques.
  • Include comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
  • Don’t forget a universal adapter for charging your electronic devices.

Budgeting for Your Trip

Fethiye, Türkiye

Turkey can be an affordable destination, but it’s essential to plan and budget accordingly. Set a daily spending limit, and track your expenses to avoid overspending. Save money by eating at local establishments, using public transportation, and staying in budget accommodations. Additionally, be prepared to haggle when shopping at markets to get the best deals. Browse the affordable Turkey tour packages offered by One Nation Travel and securely reserve your desired experience online.

Turkey is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, you can create an unforgettable travel experience that will leave you longing to return.

  • Is Turkey safe for solo female travelers? Yes, Turkey is generally safe for solo female travelers, but it’s important to take the same precautions you would in any other destination.
  • What currency is used in Turkey? The currency in Turkey is
  • the Turkish Lira (TRY). It’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and use credit cards at larger establishments.
  • Can I drink tap water in Turkey? It’s best to avoid drinking tap water in Turkey. Instead, opt for bottled or filtered water to ensure your safety.
  • Do I need vaccinations before traveling to Turkey? While there are no mandatory vaccinations for Turkey, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor or a travel health clinic to ensure you’re up to date on routine vaccinations and discuss any recommended travel vaccinations.
  • Is it common to tip in Turkey? Tipping is customary in Turkey for services such as dining at restaurants, taking taxis, and receiving assistance from hotel staff. A tip of 10-15% is generally considered appropriate.

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  • Culture and Etiquette in Turkey
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  • Archeological sites

Most archeological sites open daily between either 8am, 8.30am or 9pm and 6.30pm or 7pm in summer. Winter opening hours are usually shorter. Some smaller archeological sites are only guarded during the day and left unfenced, permitting (in theory) a free wander around in the evening, though, in the wake of antiquities theft, this could feasibly result in you being picked up by the jandarma .

Crime and personal safety

Electricity, entry requirements, opening hours and public holidays, tourist information, useful websites, getting mobile, kdv: turkish vat.

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Don’t pay entrance fees unless the wardens can produce a ticket, and keep it with you for the duration of your visit. Sites like Patara and Olympos straddle the route to a good beach. If you are staying nearby and want to visit the beach on several occasions, Smart PlajKarts are available, allowing multiple site/beach entries. One card can be shared but they are only valid for ten days.

Except near major cities, where seawater is sometimes polluted, Turkish beaches are safe to swim at, though be prepared for occasional mountains of rubbish piled at the back of the beach. Tar can also be a problem on south-coast beaches that face Mediterranean shipping lanes; if you get tar on your feet scrub it off with olive oil rather than chemical solvents. All beaches are free in theory, though luxury compounds that straddle routes to the sand will control access in various ways, and you’ll pay for the use of beach-loungers and umbrellas.

Turkey is no longer the cheap destination it used to be; prices in the heavily touristed areas are comparable to many places in Europe. Exercise a little restraint, however, be prepared to live life at least occasionally at the local level (many Turks somehow survive on TL700 a month) and you can still enjoy a great-value trip here.

Stay in a “treehouse” or backpackers’ inn, eat in local workers’ cafés or restaurants, travel around by train or bus, avoid alcohol and the most expensive sites, and you could get by on TL60–75 (€30–37.50) a day. If that doesn’t sound like much fun, double that and you could stay in a modest hotel, see the sights and have a beer or two with your evening meal. Equally, a night out on the town in İstanbul or one of the flasher coastal resorts could easily set you back over TL100 (€50), and if you intend to see a lot of what is a very big country, transport costs could be a considerable drain on your budget – though taking night buses saves accommodation costs.

The more expensive tourist sites such as Ephesus, the Tokapı Palace and Aya Sofya cost TL25 (€12.50), but there are many more sites varying between TL3 and TL15. There are no student discounts, and the Müze Kart (Museum Card), which gives admission to all state-run museums for TL30 per annum, is for Turkish citizens only.

Turkey’s crime rate remains lower than most of Europe and North America, although pickpocketing and purse-snatching are becoming more common in İstanbul (see City crimewatch) and other major cities. Violent street crime is fortunately rare. Keep your wits about you and an eye on your belongings just as you would anywhere else, and make sure your passport is secure at all times, and you shouldn’t have any problems. Except for well-known “red-light” districts, and some eastern towns, female travellers are probably safer on their own than in other European countries.

As well as the usual warnings on drugs, note that exporting antiquities is illegal. It is also an offence to insult Atatürk or Turkey , which can result in a prison sentence. Never deface, degrade or tear up currency or the flag; drunkenness will likely be considered an aggravating, not a mitigating, factor. Also, do not take photographs near the numerous, well-marked military zones.

The police, army and gendarmerie

Turkey’s police service is split into several groups. The blue-uniformed Polis are the everyday security force in cities and towns with populations over two thousand; the white-capped Trafik Polis (traffic police) are a branch of this service. İstanbul and several other large towns have a rapid-response squad of red-and-black-uniformed motorbike police known as the yunus (dolphin) polis ; they are generally courteous and helpful to tourists and may speak some English. The dark-blue-uniformed Çevik Kuvvet Polis are a rapid response team most likely seen at demonstrations, football matches and other events where large crowds are expected. In towns Belediye Zabitası , the navy-clad market police, patrol the markets and bazaars to ensure that tradesmen aren’t ripping off customers – approach them directly if you have reason for complaint. You’re unlikely to come across plain-clothes police unless you wander off the beaten track in the ethnically Kurdish southeast.

In most rural areas, law enforcement is in the hands of the jandarma or gendarmerie, a division of the regular army charged with law-enforcement duties. Gendarmes are usually kitted out in well-tailored green fatigues; most are conscripts who will be courteous and helpful if approached.

Note that it is obligatory to carry ID at all times – for locals and foreigners alike – so if you are concerned about having your passport stolen (or losing it) while out and about, at least carry a photocopy of the pages with your details and Turkish entry stamp on your person.

Security and restricted areas

There is a noticeable security presence in the Kurdish-dominated southeast of the country, with firefights between Turkish security forces and the autonomy-minded PKK (Kurdish Workers Party) continuing at the time of writing. Security is tightest along the Iraqi and Iranian borders, particularly south and east of Hakkari and around Şırnak in the mountains south of Lake Van, in the rural hinterland of Diyarbakır and in the mountainous region of Tunceli (the last not covered in this Guide). PKK attacks are invariably made in remote rural areas, often targeting military vehicles with remotely detonated bombs, though occasional fully-fledged assaults on military outposts are made – inevitably followed by major reprisals by Turkish security forces.

Kidnappings of Turkish military personnel and civilians have also become increasingly common, and in spring 2012 a British traveller was briefly detained by the PKK having been kidnapped from an inter-city bus in Diyarbakir province. Given the civil war that was raging in Syria at the time of writing, the 800km Turkish/Syrian border could also become problematic, especially as Turkey’s biggest nightmare, a proto-Kurdish state run by Syria’s Kurdish minority, appeared to be developing across the frontier.

But what does this mean to the average traveller hoping to visit this beautiful region? The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office, for example, posts the following on its website ( w fco.gov.uk) ‘‘Due to the high risk of terrorism we advise against all but essential travel to the provinces of Hakkari, Şırnak, Siirt and Tunceli. Visitors should remain vigilant when travelling in other provinces in southeastern Turkey’’. The official line, then, is to avoid the mountains south of Lake Van that border the de facto Kurdish state in northern Iraq – but then places like Tunceli are a long, long way from the border, and the FCO in any case also writes ‘‘There is a high risk of terrorism in Turkey’’ full stop. The problem is compounded by the ever-fluctuating state of relations between the state and the PKK, with long ceasefires interrupted by violent flare-ups. Although at the time of writing (2012) PKK attacks were fairly numerous, it’s quite possible the situation may have calmed down dramatically by the time you read this. In other words, read about what is happening in the press and on travellers’ forums, and use your common sense and judgement before you travel.

Although there are fewer checkpoints on main roads than there were, you may be stopped if you attempt to travel to off-the-beaten-track sites and/or villages, and your presence may attract the attention of the jandarma (and quite possibly the plain-clothes secret police, who generally stand out a mile from the locals). This may involve, at most, a rather tedious, though polite, interrogation. Lone males especially may find themselves suspected of being journalists and/or having Kurdish/Armenian sympathies. Avoid talking politics with anyone unless you are absolutely sure you can trust them, and, if you are questioned, keep calm, smile a lot, and emphasize wherever possible that you are a turist (tourist). Of more concern to the average visitor are the violent pro-Kurdish street demonstrations that break out from time to time in southeastern cities such as Diyarbakır and Van – though major cities in the west of the country are not immune, especially İstanbul, Adana and Mersin, which have large and sometimes volatile Kurdish communities. One traditional spark for demonstrations is the Kurdish New Year or Nevruz (Newroz), on or around March 21. For more information on the Kurdish problem see Contexts.

Turkey operates on 220 volts, 50 Hz. Most European appliances should work so long as you have an adaptor for European-style two-pin plugs. American appliances will need a transformer as well as an adaptor.

Early in 2012 Turkey changed its tourist visa rules. Prior to this amendment it was possible to enter the country on a 90-day visa, then at the end of that period slip across the border to a Greek island, Bulgaria or even North Cyprus, re-enter immediately and get a new three-month stamp. Mainly in order to stop people living and working (illegally) in the country for an indefinite period, the new visa is valid for 90 days within 180 days. In other words, stay for 90 days consecutively, and you cannot re-enter for another 90 days. Alternatively, you can make multiple trips to Turkey within the 180-day validity period of the visa so long as the total stay does not exceed 90 days.

The tourist visas (available at ports of entry for a fee) are issued to citizens of the UK ($20, €15 or £10), Ireland ($20, €10 or £10), the US ($20 or €15), Canada ($60 or €45) and Australia ($20 or €15). South Africans should be able to get a 30-day visa at the point of entry, but would be wise to enquire at a Turkish consulate before travelling. New Zealanders do not currently require visas. Everyone, regardless of nationality, should have at least six months’ validity on their passport. For the latest information on visas, check with the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs at w mfa.gov.tr .

If you want to stay in the country longer than a tourist visa allows, the best option is to apply for a six-month residence permit from the Security Division ( Emniyet Müdürlüğü ), preferably in a provincial capital that’s well used to foreigners. Do this well before your time expires, as it takes at least two weeks to process. You will need to complete an “Ikamet izni beyanname formu” application form and supply four passport-sized photographs, along with photocopies from your passport of the photo-page and the page showing your last entry into Turkey. The rub is that you also need to show that you have changed $500 for each of the six months – showing change receipts from a bank or döviz will suffice. Residence permit rates vary according to nationality – UK citizens for example pay $80 (payable in TL on the day, according to the exchange rate on the day you apply), but the cost of the “blue book” containing the permit is a steep TL172. This is a one-off payment, however, as once you have the book you can keep renewing your permit for periods of between six months and ten years.

Turkish embassies and consulates abroad

Australia 60 Mugga Way, Red Hill, Canberra ACT 2603 t 02 6295 0227.

Canada 197 Wurtemburg St, Ottawa, ON K1N 8L9 t 613 789 4044.

Ireland 11 Clyde Rd, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 t 01 668 5240.

New Zealand 15–17 Murphy St, Level 8, Wellington t 04 472 1290.

South Africa 1067 Church St, Hatfield 0181, Pretoria t 012 342 5063.

UK 43 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8PA t 0207 393 0202.

US 2525 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008 t 202 612 6700.

Customs and border inspections

As Turkey is not yet an EU member, duty-free limits – and sales – for alcohol and tobacco are still prevalent. Limits are posted clearly at İstanbul’s airports, and apply for all frontiers.

Few people get stopped departing Turkey, but the guards may be on the lookout for antiquities and fossils . Penalties for trying to smuggle these out include long jail sentences, plus a large fine. What actually constitutes an antiquity is rather vague, but it’s best not to take any chances.

It is essential to take out an insurance policy before you travel, to cover against illness or injury, as well as theft or loss. Some all-risks homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies may cover your possessions when overseas, and many private medical schemes (such as BUPA and WPA) offer coverage extensions for abroad.

Rough Guides offers its own insurance policy. Most policies exclude so-called dangerous sports unless an extra premium is paid: in Turkey this can mean scuba diving, whitewater rafting, paragliding, windsurfing and trekking, though probably not kayaking or jeep safaris. Travel agents and package operators may require travel insurance when you book a holiday – you’re not obliged to take theirs, though you have to sign a declaration saying that you already have another policy. Similarly, many no-frills airlines make a tidy sum from selling unnecessary insurance at the time of booking – beware, and opt out.

Many hotels, pensions and hostels have internet access – often both terminals and wi-fi signal – as do an ever-increasing number of cafés. Access is usually free except in the more expensive international chain hotels. In more remote places in the interior, and the east of the country, only the more expensive hotels have wi-fi. Rates in internet cafés tend to be TL2 per hour. The Turkish-character keyboard you’ll probably be faced with may cause some confusion. The “@” sign is made by simultaneously pressing the “ALT” and “q” keys. More frustrating is the dotless “ı” (confusingly enough found right where you’ll be expecting the conventional “i”) – the Western “i” is located second key from right, middle row.

Post offices are easily spotted by their bold black-on-yellow PTT (Posta, Telegraf, Telefon) signs. Stamps are only available from the PTT, whose website ( w ptt.gov.tr ) has a (not necessarily up-to-date) English-language listing of services and prices. Post offices are generally open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm and until noon on Saturday. Airmail ( uçakla ) rates to Europe are TL1.10 for postcards, TL2 for letters up to 20g, TL19 for 2kg, the maximum weight for letters. Delivery to Europe or North America can take seven to ten days. A pricier express ( acele ) service cuts delivery times to the EU to about three days. When sending airmail, it’s best to give your stamped letter/card to the clerk behind the counter, who will ensure it gets put in the right place; otherwise, place it in the relevant slot if one is available ( yurtdışı for abroad; yurtiçi for elsewhere in Turkey).

Maps of Turkey are notoriously poor quality owing to the lack of survey-based cartography. The best foreign-produced touring maps , accurately showing many smaller villages, are those published by Kartographischer Verlag Reinhard Ryborsch (1:500,000; Frankfurt, Germany), which cover the entire country in seven maps. They are usually available online, but both original and pirated versions are sold at better bookshops in İstanbul, Ankara and big resorts. Reasonable second choices, easier to obtain, include Insight’s Turkey West and Insight Turkey (both 1:800,000), both of which are easy to read and reasonably accurate, and the equally reliable Turkey Geocentre Euro map (1:750,000).

In terms of Turkish-produced touring maps , the 1:400,000 atlas produced by Atlas magazine is highly accurate but difficult to read owing to murky printing. The best regional touring maps are Sabri Aydal’s 1:250,000 products for Cappadocia, Lycia, Pamphylia and Pisidia, available from local bookshops and museums.

İstanbul, Ankara, Antalya, Bursa and İzmir (as well as overseas) tourist offices stock reasonable, free city street plans . Sketch plans from provincial tourist offices vary widely in quality.

Among Turkish-produced city maps , Net’s “All of Istanbul” 1:9000 is more comprehensive than Keskin Colour’s 1:8500 “İstanbul Street Plan”, and includes useful maps of the Prince’s islands. The most detailed A–Z-style atlas for the European side, ideal for out-of-the-way monuments, is Mepmedya’s 1:7500 “İstanbul Avrupa Yakası”, though it’s pricey (TL50) and heavy. All these are sold in town and (Mepmedya excepted) cheaper than anything produced abroad.

For trekking maps see the section Hiking equipment and safety.

Turkey’s currency is the Turkish Lira (Türk Lirası) or TL for short, divided into smaller units known as kuruş. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 kuruş and TL1, with notes in denominations of TL5, TL10, TL20, TL50, TL100 and TL200.

At the time of writing the exchange rate was around TL2.10 to the euro, TL2.70 to the pound and TL1.70 to the US dollar. As recently as 2004 hyperinflation meant that millions of lira were needed to purchase the smallest everyday item. and many Turks still talk in millions, which can be confusing when you are asked “bir milyon” or one million lira for a TL1 glass of tea.

Rates for foreign currency are always better inside Turkey, so try not to buy much lira at home. Conversely, don’t leave Turkey with unspent lira, as you won’t get a decent exchange rate for them outside the country. It’s wise to bring a fair wad of hard currency with you (euros are best, though dollars and sterling are often accepted), as you can often use it to pay directly for souvenirs or accommodation (prices for both are frequently quoted in euros). Travellers’ cheques are, frankly, not worth the bother, as exchange offices and some banks refuse them.

Changing money

While most banks, such as İşbank and Yapıkredi, change money, the best exchange rate is usually given by the state-owned banks Ziraat Bankası, which has dedicated döviz (exchange) counters – but despite the automated ticket/queuing system queues can be long. Döviz , or exchange houses, are common in Turkey’s cities and resorts. They buy and sell foreign currency of most sorts instantly, and have the convenience of long opening hours (usually 9/10am–8/10pm) and short or nonexistent queues. Most do not charge commission, but give a lower rate than the banks.

Remember to keep all foreign-exchange slips with you until departure, if only to prove the value of purchases made in case of queries by customs.

Credit/debit cards and ATMs

Credit cards are widely used in hotels, shops, restaurants, travel agencies and entertainment venues and with no commission (though many hotels and shops offer discounts for cash rather than credit-card payments). Don’t expect, however, to use your card in basic eating places or small corner shops. Swipe readers plus chip-and-PIN protocol are now the norm in most of Turkey.

The simplest way to get hold of money in Turkey is to use the widespread ATM network. Most bank ATMs will accept any debit cards that are part of the Cirrus, Maestro or Visa/Plus systems. Screen prompts are given in English on request. You can also normally get cash advances at any bank displaying the appropriate sign, and in major cities and resorts some ATMs will give euros and dollars. It’s safest to use ATMs attached to banks during normal working hours, so help can be summoned if your card is eaten (not uncommon). Turkish ATMs sometimes “time out” without disgorging cash, while your home bank may still debit your account – leaving you to argue the toss with them. ATM fraud is rife in Turkey – make sure you are not overlooked when keying in your PIN. You can also use Visa or MasterCard to get cash from ATMs.

Office workers keep conventional Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm schedules, with a full lunch hour. Civil servants, including tourist offices and museum staff, in theory work 8.30am to 5.30pm, but in practice hours can be much more erratic – don’t expect to get official business attended to the same day after 2.30pm. Most state banks are open Monday to Friday, 8.30am to noon and 1.30pm to 5pm. Private banks such as Garanti Bankası and Köç operate throughout the day.

Ordinary shops , including large department stores and mall outlets, are open continuously from 8.30am or 9am until 7pm or 8pm (sometimes even later in many major cities and resorts). Craftsmen and bazaar stallholders often work from 9am to 8pm or 9pm, Monday to Saturday, with only short breaks for meals, tea or prayers. Even on Sunday the tradesmen’s area may not be completely shut down – though don’t count on this.

Museums are generally open from 8.30am or 9am until 4.30pm or 5pm in winter, later in the summer. Virtually all state, and some private, museums are closed on Monday, though in İstanbul closing days are staggered so make sure you check the individual listings. All tourist sites and museums are closed on the mornings of public holidays. Mosques are theoretically open all the time, but many of the less visited ones are kept locked outside of prayer times, and many do not encourage visitors at prayer times!

Public holidays

Secular public holidays are generally marked by processions of schoolchildren or the military, or by some demonstration of national strength and dignity, such as a sports display. Banks and government offices will normally be closed on these days (exceptions given here). For more information, see the section on religious festivals.

Jan 1 Yılbaşı – New Year’s Day.

April 23 Ulusal Egemenlik ve Çocuk Bayramı – Independence Day, celebrating the first meeting of the new Republican parliament in Ankara, and Children’s Day.

May 19 Gençlik ve Spor Günü – Youth and Sports Day, also Atatürk’s birthday.

May 29 İstanbul’s capture by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1453 (İstanbul only).

July 1 Denizcilik Günü – Navy Day (banks and offices open).

Aug 26 Silahlı Kuvvetler Günü – Armed Forces Day (banks and offices open).

Aug 30 Zafer Bayramı – Celebration of the Turkish victory over the Greek forces at Dumlupınar in 1922.

Sept 9 Kurtuluş Günü – Liberation Day, with parades and speeches marking the end of the Independence War (İzmir only).

Oct 29 Cumhuriyet Bayramı – commemorates the proclamation of the Republic by Atatürk in 1923.

Nov 10 Anniversary of Atatürk’s death in 1938 . Observed at 9.05am (the time of his demise), when the whole country stops whatever it’s doing and maintains a respectful silence for a minute. It’s worth being on a Bosphorus ferry then, when all the engines are turned off, and the boats drift and sound their foghorns mournfully.

Most fixed-line telecom services are provided by TT (Türk Telekom); its website ( w turktelekom.com.tr ) has an English-language page listing all services and tariffs. The best place to make phone calls is from either a PTT (post office) or a TT (Türk Telekom) centre. Inside, or just adjacent, there is usually a row of card ( köntürlü or smartkart ) call boxes (TTs are blue and turquoise), and/or a kontürlü (metered, clerk-attended) phone, the latter sometimes in a closed booth. Public phones are to be found in squares and parks, outside many public buildings and at train stations and ferry terminals. The standard Turkish phone replies are the Frenchified Allo or the more local Buyurun (literally, “Avail yourself/at your service”).

“Smart” phonecards are available from PTT or TT centres; when using these, wait for the number of units remaining to appear on the screen before you dial, and be aware that you will have little warning of being cut off. They are bought in units of 50 (TL3.75), 100 (TL7.50), 200 (TL15) and 350 (TL19). A steadily increasing number of phones have also been adapted to accept foreign credit cards . Metered booths inside PTTs or TTs, or at street kiosks or shops (look for signs reading kontürlü telefon bulunur ), work out more expensive than cards, but are certainly far cheaper than hotels, and also tend to be quieter (plus you won’t be cut off). Their disadvantage is that you can’t see the meter ticking over, and instances of overcharging are not unknown.

Overseas calls

Overseas call rates are TL0.25 per minute to Europe or North America. Try not to make anything other than local calls from a hotel room – there’s usually a minimum 100 percent surcharge on phonecard rates. For extended chat overseas, it’s best to buy an international phonecard. Best is the Alocard, available from PTT branches and usable in public phones. Reveal the 12-digit PIN by scratching; then call the domestic access number, followed by the destination number. Rates are low – for example, a TL10 card allows 104 minutes to the UK or US. The cards can also be used for domestic calls, giving 140 minutes of calling time.

Turkey uses a system of eleven-digit phone numbers nationwide, consisting of four-digit area or mobile-provider codes (all starting with “0”) plus a seven-digit subscriber number.

To call a number in Turkey from overseas , dial your country’s international access code, then 90 for Turkey, then the area or mobile code minus the initial zero, and finally the subscriber number. To call home from Turkey , dial t 00 followed by the relevant international dialling code, then the area code (without the initial zero if there is one) then the number.

Turkey is two hours ahead of GMT in winter. As in Europe, daylight saving is observed between March and October – clocks change at 2am on the last Sunday in each month – so effectively Turkey remains two hours ahead of the UK year-round.

Most Turkish towns of any size will have a Turizm Danışma Bürosu or tourist office of some sort, often lodged inside the Belediye (city hall) in the smaller places. However, outside the larger cities and obvious tourist destinations there’s often little hard information to be had, and world-weary staff may dismiss you with useless brochures. Lists of accommodation are sometimes kept at the busier offices; personnel, however, will generally not make bookings. On the other hand, staff in out-of-the-way places can be embarrassingly helpful. It’s best to have a specific question – about bus schedules, festival ticket availability or museum opening hours – although in remote regions there is no guarantee that there will be anyone who can speak English.

Tourist offices generally adhere to a standard opening schedule of 8.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday. Between May and September in big-name resorts and large cities, these hours extend well into the evening and through much of the weekend. In winter, by contrast, many tourist offices in out-of-the-way spots will be shut most of the time.

Turkish information offices abroad

Overseas Turkish tourist offices (often the embassy’s Information Office) will provide a few very basic maps and glossy brochures.

UK 29–30 St James’s St, London SW1A 1HB telephone: 0207 8397778, website: gototurkey.co.uk .

US 821 United Nations Plaza, New York, NY 10017 telephone: 212 687 2194; 2525 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008 t 202 612 6800; 5055 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 850, Los Angeles CA 90036 telephone: 323 937 8066, website: goturkiye.com

biletix.com

An online booking service for arts, cultural, music and sports events (mainly in İstanbul and Ankara), in both English and Turkish.

cultureroutesinturkey.com

Umbrella site for all the country’s hiking and horse-riding trails.

goturkiye.com

Turkey’s official tourist information site.

muze.gen.tr

Government website with information on the country’s state-run museums, including the latest opening hours and admission fees.

trekkinginturkey.com

Well-researched information on major trekking areas and long-distance routes, with links to relevant outdoor-activity-type sites.

turkishculture.org

Not terribly innovative – but it does give a useful rundown on everything from architecture to ceramics, literature to music and lifestyles to cuisine – with plenty of photographs and illustrations.

Given the Turkish penchant for chatting, mobile phones are essential accessories here. Assuming that you have a roaming facility, your home mobile will connect with one of the local network providers – however, US mobiles won’t work here. Charges, though, are high (up to £1.30/min to the UK), and you pay for incoming calls as well. Purchasing a local SIM card and pay-as-you-go package may be worth considering if you intend to make a lot of calls. Turkcell SIM cards (which can take up to 24hr to activate) cost TL35, including TL5 calling credit, or TL45 will get you the card and TL20 credit. Typically, calls cost 80 kuruş per min to Europe and North America, an SMS message to the UK the same. To purchase a SIM card, you’ll need to sign an agreement form and present your passport for photocopying at a major Turkcell, Avea or Vodafone outlet where they’ll fit the new card. All three companies have stands at arrivals in Istanbul’s Atatürk and Sabiha Gökçen airports; Turkcell has the widest coverage. Note that the rules on bringing in mobiles from overseas and using them with a Turkish SIM card change regularly. This is because mobiles are much cheaper when bought outside the country, so the government keeps introducing ever more stringent conditions in the hope of preventing people bringing them in and selling them on. At the time of writing, a mobile registered at a legitimate outlet can be used with a Turkish SIM for one month, after which it will be blocked. If you buy from one of the many smaller mobile phone stores and don’t sign an agreement you run the risk of your phone not being registered for use in Turkey, and it will be blocked within a matter of days.

The Turkish variety of VAT ( Katma Değer Vergisi or KDV ), ranging from eight to 23 percent depending on the commodity, is included in the price of virtually all goods and services (except car rental, where the 18 percent figure is usually quoted separately). Look for the notice Fiyatlarımız KDV Dahildir (VAT included in our prices) if you think someone’s trying to do you for it twice. There’s a VAT refund scheme for large souvenir purchases made by those living outside Turkey, but it’s such a rigmarole to get that it’s probably not worth pursuing; if you insist, ask the shop to provide a KDV İade Özel Fatura (Special VAT Refund Invoice), assuming that it participates – very few do, and they tend to be the most expensive shops.

The Rough Guides to Turkey and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Pocket Rough Guide Istanbul

Travel advice for Turkey

Find even more inspiration here.

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Turkey travel tips — 13+ dos and don’ts & what to know before visiting turkey.

travel ideas turkey

Turkey is one of the most popular destinations for tourists today. Your trip will be perfect if you avoid doing the following 13+ things while traveling to Turkey. So, what to know before visiting Turkey, what not to do in Turkey and what to know before traveling to Turkey? Let’s check out our Turkey travel tips, Turkey travel etiquette and Turkey travel advice with 14 things to know before traveling to Turkey, things to know before visiting Turkey including dos and don’ts in Turkey in general as well as dos and don’ts in Istanbul in particular! Okay, let’s get started! We’ll find these things out together!

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travel ideas turkey

What to know before visiting Turkey: Wear shoes when entering the mosque

travel ideas turkey

If you visit a mosque, remember to take off your shoes before entering the building. Also note that you shouldn’t wear shorts, as this is thought to be inappropriate. If you are lucky enough to visit a Turkish house, check the entrance for shoe storage and then put your shoes in the right place.

travel ideas turkey

Dos and don’ts in Turkey: Consume food and drink in public places when traveling during Ramadan

travel ideas turkey

Ramadan is a Muslim holiday that lasts about a month. During this time, people usually go on a vegetarian diet every day for 30 days. Muslims aren’t supposed to eat or drink anything between sunrise and sunset.

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If you travel to Turkey during the month of Ramadan, you shouldn’t eat or drink in public or offer anything to a Muslim during the day.

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Turkey travel advice: Walk in front of a praying person

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According to the traditional conception of Muslims, if you precede a person who is praying, their prayers will not be counted. This becomes even more true when you visit a mosque. Therefore, be extremely cautious when walking in these places.

travel ideas turkey

Turkey travel tips: Wear inappropriate costumes

travel ideas turkey

When you travel to Turkey, remember to bring some discreet clothes. Both men and women should consider leaving their shorts at home. As you get away from big cities, you will likely see Muslims looking at you strangely if you’re wearing unusual attire.

travel ideas turkey

What not to do in Turkey: Forget to learn a few Turkish words before traveling

travel ideas turkey

Most people living in Turkey do not speak English (like many people in the United States do not speak Turkish). So if you’re going to visit this country, learn a few basic words and phrases to communicate more effectively.

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What to know before traveling to Turkey: Practice body language when visiting Turkey

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In Turkey, your nod will be meaningless or confusing. If you want to signal “yes” or “agree” to someone, only nod once. Otherwise, if you want to say “no” or “disagree,” lift your chin, raise your eyebrows and press your tongue slightly.

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Things to know before traveling to Turkey: Fail to be concerned with your behaviors in all circumstances

Galata Tower

One of the things not to do in Turkey is failing to pay attention to one’s behavior. Not only because it’s a cultural norm of the Turks but remember that you represent your country, so be careful in all actions. You’d better learn some Turkish such as “please” and “thank you” before traveling to Turkey!

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Be offended when the Turks only talk to your companions who are male

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If you are a woman visiting Turkey with your significant other or friends, you will find that Turkish men only speak to your male companion.

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This is something that happens very commonly in the countryside. You shouldn’t be offended or have bad feelings for them. The reason is they’re trying to protect your virtue politely in their traditional style.

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Things to know before visiting Turkey: Enter a mosque dressed in sexy outfits

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The historic mosques of Turkey, such as the Blue Mosque or Yeni Cami, are not only tourist attractions but also places where devotees come to pray. To show your respect in these sacred locations, say no to wearing sexy clothes.

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul,Turkey-8

Indeed, you should prepare a sweater to cover your shoulders or arms. At the same time, you should avoid wearing miniskirts and shorts. You will feel comfortable when mingling yourself into the surrounding with discreet and respectful outfits.

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Dos and don’ts in Istanbul: Get on a taxi without a logo

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Turkish taxi drivers are pretty fond of separating tourists by taking detour routes or using a faulty meter for extra fares. To keep yourself from this kind of situation, you should choose taxis that offer a certain price.

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You can distinguish between trustworthy and rogue taxis by the logos on the doors. This will show you that the cab is working under a certain brand instead of a fishy business. The advice is to download the BiTaksi app to book a reliable ride from anywhere.

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What to know before visiting Turkey: Only go shopping at shopping malls

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Going to shopping malls is quite a waste when traveling to Turkey. You can go to the markets to discover great things, from the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul to the Kemeraltı Market in Izmir.

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You’ll find more unique handmade products, clothing, and accessories than any of the brand stores located at shopping malls.

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Dos and don’ts in Turkey: Focus only on tourist areas

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It would be regrettable to travel to Turkey and only visit the central tourist areas. While many people only visit Istanbul, locals usually recommend going to other unpopular places in the city.

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Take a day or two to visit the main attractions, then spend your time researching and exploring the surrounding local areas. There are a lot of exciting things here, which will let you have an awesome experience of Turkey.

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Show off your wealth

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There are only a few areas in Turkey where you can comfortably show off your wealth. For example, wealthy neighborhoods in big cities like Istanbul or Ankara. However, it’s better to avoid flaunting your money in smaller cities or rural areas because this will easily make you a target for scams.

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Though Turkish tourism has experienced a sharp decline in sales in recent years, the beautiful country situated across two continents still has new features that attract tourists globally. The historical sites, enchanting sceneries, delicious food, and cultural festivals imbued with national identity will give visitors the most beautiful memories in Turkey.

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul,Turkey-9

If you consider Turkey as your next vacation, schedule your trip now! This country won’t let you down. Above are a few things not to do when traveling to Turkey for your reference. Hopefully, these tips will help you have a wonderful and memorable journey.

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travel ideas turkey

Driftwood Outdoors: Now is the time to prepare for turkey season

It’s going to be here before you know it.

Words once used to quell anticipation for Christmas morning now stir the same sort of butterflies when uttered in relation to the upcoming turkey season.

For the lucky few who have made the trek to Florida or elsewhere open early, the season is already underway. While the rest of us await our own opener, we are blessed with time to prepare.  

I’m not sure when my first opening morning will be. I have a coveted Nebraska tag burning a hole in my pocket. The idea of going after one with a bow is growing on me.

If I don’t do that, then April 15, opening day in Missouri, will be my first hunt of the year. Along with the two aforementioned states, I also plan to turkey hunt in Massachusetts this spring.  

With a little over a month to prepare, I’m going to begin this weekend by taking my turkey hunting storage box off the shelf in my barn. This treasure chest houses my clothes, loaded vest, and other turkey hunting accessories. Taking inventory of my goods is always enjoyable. I’m able to inspect the quality of what I have on hand, plan for any necessary repairs or replacements, and figure out what additions are needed to complete my repertoire.

Calls are critical for turkey hunting. If you’re a beginner, a trip to your local sporting goods store could be overwhelming. You’re going to see a lot of different kinds of calls. There are mouth calls, slate calls, box calls, push-button calls, wing bone calls, and more.

Don’t worry. All you really need is one call you know how to use. For beginners, I would suggest a box call or a push-button call. They are simple to use, hard to mess up. A little research and a lot of practice will have you ready. People don’t all sound the same. Neither do turkeys. Make sure you start practicing now.  

Speaking of practice, all you old-timers with a rope of beards hanging in your trophy room — it wouldn’t hurt you to tune up a bit. Make sure those reeds are in good condition. Scrub the top of your slate call with some sandpaper. Don’t forget to rough up the tip of your striker too. Chalk your box call. Figure out the when and where for each call and assign them the proper locations in your vest or pack.  

The National Wild Turkey Federation convention drew over 72,000 attendees this year. We know there are going to be other turkey hunters out there to compete with. This will certainly be true on public land, but it’ll be true on a lot of private land too. You need to make a game plan for where you’ll be at sunrise on opening. Then you need to make a couple of backup plans. Numerous scenarios could drive you from your first choice.  

Now is the time to prepare those spots. If you hunt from a blind, you should want to set them up before the season starts and have them outfitted with chairs and other comforts. Take a small saw and clippers to clear shooting lanes. To really open up an area, you can go in with a mower or weed eater. If I’m hunting from a blind, I like to have yardage markers staked in the ground at 20, 30, 40, and 50 yards. 

The weather during turkey season can be wild. You may need a heater in your blind one day, a rain suit the next day, and nothing but a T-shirt the rest of the week. Prepare clothes to run the gamut of conditions.

One big tip is to pre-treat your hunting clothes with permethrin. Sawyer sells this in a recognizable yellow bottle. Tick diseases like Lyme, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and Alpha-gal are no joke. Take the time to spray your clothes with permethrin a couple of days before wearing them, then spray yourself with insect spray the day you’re hitting the woods. 

Decoys are a topic for discussion among turkey hunters. I like to use decoys. I have a spread with two hens and jake that sees a lot of action when I’m hunting from a blind or stationary position. At times, I’ll run and gun with just one hen decoy in my pack. And sometimes I won’t use a decoy at all. I think they’re fun, because you might get to watch a live bird interact with an impersonator.  

Turkey season is a special time to be outdoors. In addition to chasing gobblers, you can hunt mushrooms and shed antlers, and usually fill a stringer with fish. Time is precious, that’s why we refer to using time as spending it. If you want your time spent turkey hunting to be as enjoyable as possible, you should be preparing.   

See you down the trail.   

For more Driftwood Outdoors, check out the podcast on  www.driftwoodoutdoors.com  or anywhere podcasts are streamed.   

This article originally appeared on Columbia Daily Tribune: Driftwood Outdoors: Now is the time to prepare for turkey season

Scout now to make finding turkeys later in the season easier than this.

IMAGES

  1. 6 Epic Places to Visit in Turkey

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  2. 15 Best Places In Turkey To Visit

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  3. 17 Useful Turkey Travel Tips: What to Know Before Traveling to Turkey

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  4. Top 21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Turkey

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  5. Top 19 Best Places to Visit in Turkey

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  6. Best Things to Do and See in Turkey

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COMMENTS

  1. 25 Epic Places to Visit In Turkey

    Below is a breakdown of the number of days we'd recommend for some of the top places to visit in Turkey. The lower number of days will be for just seeing the highlights, while the higher number will allow you to spend more time really enjoying each place. Istanbul: 4-6 days. Cappadocia: 3-5 days. Pamukkale: 2-3 days.

  2. 15 Things To Know Before Visiting Turkey + 11 Best Tips

    The shoulder seasons fall in April, May, September, and October. This is a good time to visit Turkey because temperatures are pleasant this time of year, ranging between a more comfortable 20°C to 30°C (though remember what I have said about rain and Cappadocia). Temperatures in the winter months vary.

  3. 10 of the best places to visit in Türkiye (Turkey)

    Mardin 's picturesque, well-preserved old town also makes a great base for exploring the monasteries and Roman ruins in the surrounding area. The world's oldest religious site, Göbeklitepe, lies just outside of Şanlıurfa, which has its own fine archaeology museum and bazaar. 6. Datça and Bozburun peninsulas.

  4. The 12 best things to do in Turkey

    Hike the Lycian Way. For a more active way to explore the Turquoise Coast, consider taking on part of the Lycian Way, a long-distance trekking path stretching 540 km (335 mi) from Fethiye to Antalya. Best traversed in spring or fall, the sometimes challenging trail winds along spectacular coastal cliffs, through bucolic villages and beach towns ...

  5. Turkey Travel Tips (from a local): 15 Things to Know About Turkey

    The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira. Although most places would prefer cash, you can also pay with VISA and Mastercard. Try to carry a smaller amount of money for smaller purchases. Turkey has banknotes for 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 lira. So carrying two 50 liras instead of one 100 lira might be better.

  6. 12 Days in Turkey: The 4 Best Itinerary Ideas

    Days 5-7: Cappadocia (a hot-air balloon ride and a stay in a cave hotel) Days 8-9: Izmir (a day trip to Ephesus and a city tour) Day 10: Pamukkale (natural thermal springs and travertine terraces) Days 11-12: Antalya (a free day for beach fun, Duden Waterfalls, and a city tour) You would start your trip in Istanbul.

  7. Perfect 5 Days In Turkey Itinerary

    5 Day Turkey Itinerary Ideas - How To Spend 5 Days In Turkey. These itinerary ideas include extraordinary destinations that will make your trip truly memorable.. Option 1 - Turkey In 5 Days. Day 1: Arrive in Istanbul & explore Day 2: Visit Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar Day 3: Travel to Cappadocia Day 4: Explore Göreme National Park and the Underground Cities

  8. 14 Day Turkey Itinerary

    Below, you will find the ultimate guide on how to spend 2 weeks in Türkiye. This 14 day Turkey itinerary covers historical sites, the outdoors, food stops & more. Turkey is among the best travel destinations in the world. When planning your trip to Turkey, keep in mind that Turkey is located in both Asia and Europe, giving it a mix of elements ...

  9. 10 Days in Turkey

    Itinerary #2: Explore Historic Turkey. This 10-day adventure focuses on the myriad ruins of ancient cities found all over Turkey, some of which date to before even 10,000 BCE. Ruins of the ancient Greek city of Pergamon. Day. Highlights. Overnight. Day 1.

  10. 27 Iconic Things To Do In Turkey For First Timers

    The best neighborhoods to stay in Istanbul are Karakoy and Beyoglu on the European side and Kadikoy on the Asia side. Ferries and trams are cheap and easy to take to and forth and run regularly. 19. Visit the Hagia Sofia Mosque. The Hagia Sofia Mosque is one of Turkey's most popular tourist attractions.

  11. The Ultimate Turkey Itinerary 10 days

    Turkey Itinerary 5 Days: Option 1. In the Turkey 5 day itinerary below, you will fly to Cappadocia in the evening of the third day and have almost two full days in the Anatolian region before heading home. Days 1-2: Istanbul. Day 3: Istanbul. Early/late evening flight to Cappadocia. Stay in Cappadocia.

  12. 5 Days in Turkey

    Istanbul to Cappadocia, Göreme Museum. Cappadocia. Day 4. Sunrise Balloon Tour, Kaymaklı Underground City, Ihlara Valley Hike. Cappadocia. Day 5. Free Morning in Cappadocia, Depart. You'll arrive in the historic and culturally rich city of Istanbul. Located on the Bosphorus Strait, this bridge between the Asian and European continents is a ...

  13. The 8 most amazing road trips in Turkey

    Start - Bodrum; End - Dalaman; Distance - 655km (407 miles) The winding roads, scenic views and relaxed vibe of the three peninsulas that jut out from the Turkish coast where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean Sea - Bodrum, Datça, and Bozburun - encourage leisurely dawdling. The Bodrum peninsula is the most popular destination, with ...

  14. 2 Weeks in Turkey

    Itinerary #2: Explore Historic Turkey. This two-week holiday focuses on the historical highlights of Turkey, which run the gamut from ancient Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman cities to the more recent sites of World War I battles. The Library of Celsus in Ephesus. Day. Highlights.

  15. 20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Turkey

    For ideas on the best places to visit read our list of the top tourist attractions in Turkey. On This Page: 1. Hagia Sophia (Aya Sofya) Mosque; 2. Ephesus; 3. Cappadocia ... Highlight: Experience Turkey's dramatic coastline from the sea on a scenic slow-travel adventure. Turkey's Mediterranean coastline has ruins galore and many things to do ...

  16. Ultimate Turkey Travel Guide (Planning, Tips & Advice)

    Climate: Very warm & dry, cool at night. Primary Religion: Muslim. Local Languages: Turkish, English is widely spoken. Etiquette Tips: Dress modestly, women should wear long pants and shirts with long sleeves to avoid unwanted attention, tight-fitting clothing should be avoided out of respect for the culture.

  17. 9 Useful Turkey Travel Tips For A Fun And Hassle-free Trip

    10 Best Turkey Travel Tips. Make sure you follow these handy tips for visiting Turkey so that you can enjoy a comfortable vacation without landing into an unpleasant situation. 1. Research Well Before You Make Your Itinerary. Before heading to Turkey, make sure you make a checklist of all the places to visit.

  18. 31 Best Things To Do In Turkey & Places To See

    Turkey is one of the best places to travel with kids. Check our guide to the best places to go with kids and find some more inspirational ideas for the family holidays. If you prefer to plan and book your trip to the Turkey without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you ...

  19. 1 Week in Turkey

    Itinerary #1: Turkey at a Glance. Explore Turkey's classic highlights on this one-week tour that takes you from the vibrant city of Istanbul to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia and the ruins of Ephesus. Experience Turkey's arts, culture, and history firsthand with cooking and pottery classes and a visit to an active archaeological site ...

  20. The Ultimate Traveler's Guide to Turkey

    Turkey is a year-round destination, but the ideal time to visit depends on your interests and preferences. Spring (April-May): The weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring archaeological sites. Summer (June-August): The coastal regions are bustling with tourists seeking sun, sand, and sea.

  21. Travel Tips for Turkey

    Turkey is one of the world's top 10 tourism destinations, and for good reason. Here are the travel tips you need to know to have a great trip, including what to pack, when to visit, and what to ...

  22. Travel Tips Turkey for planning and on the go

    More travel information for Turkey. From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Turkey. Culture and Etiquette in Turkey; Eating and drinking in Turkey; Getting around Turkey: Transportation Tips; Shopping tips for Turkey; Sports and Outdoor activities in Turkey; Travel Tips Turkey for planning and on the go

  23. Turkey travel tips

    Turkey travel tips: Wear inappropriate costumes | dos and don'ts in turkey. When you travel to Turkey, remember to bring some discreet clothes. Both men and women should consider leaving their shorts at home. As you get away from big cities, you will likely see Muslims looking at you strangely if you're wearing unusual attire.

  24. Driftwood Outdoors: Now is the time to prepare for turkey season

    The National Wild Turkey Federation convention drew over 72,000 attendees this year. We know there are going to be other turkey hunters out there to compete with. This will certainly be true on ...